Zack was born in Belen, New Mexico. He was the eldest of the three children of Zack and Isidora Romero. He graduated from Rio Grande High School in Albuquerque in 1974. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served honorably for four years. He was passionate about his duty to his country and how he could serve it most honorably. During this time he met his future wife, then Marlene Jackson, in San Diego, Ca. They married in 1978. After his time in the service, he attended and graduated from the University of New Mexico (UNM) with a Bachelor’s in Education. He later earned his Master’s in Physical Education from UNM as well. He took his first teaching job in Roy, NM in 1982, and after ten years there, spent an additional eleven years teaching in Cimarron, NM. During this time in Roy, he and his wife welcomed their three children. While in Roy, Zack found his true professional passion in becoming a high school coach – the sports he led included track and field, baseball, basketball, and his true joy, volleyball. He coached for a total of 31 years (in Roy, Cimarron, and Raton, NM) winning numerous games, and positively influencing innumerable student athletes along the way. He loved his work, he loved his students, and he worked unceasingly for their best interests. Although his health declined over the later years of his life, Zack continued to remain active in the support of his family. He was also blessed to welcome his first grandchild in 2013, and two more in 2017. They became, along with his wife and children, the joy of his life. Zack is survived by his family who loves him dearly: his wife Marlene; his daughter Beth Romero and her fiance Anthony Fairbanks; his son Thomas Romero, his wife Cheryl, and their two daughters Brooklyn (6) and Lily (1); his son Steve Romero, his wife Andrea, and their son Logan (1); also surviving are his sister Jeni Romero, her husband Raymond Jeanloz and their son Aaron of California, a brother Tom Romero of Albuquerque, and his father Zack Romero of Albuquerque. He is preceded in death by his mother, Isidora Romero, and his grandmother, Ramona Gomez. He was a kind, honest man who loved his family dearly. He will be missed, but his memory will be cherished! Services were held at Sister Hildegard Smith Parish Hall in Cimarron on Saturday, April 13th. Rosary and Mass followed with Father John Brasher as the celebrant.
Arrangements under the direction of the Yaksich-Long Funeral Home of Raton.
The Family of Zack Romero wish to thank everyone who provided loving support, prayer, food, cards and their time and care during our time of grief. We appreciate everyone, and give special thanks to Father Brasher, the Knights of Columbus and everyone who provided the reception meal and clean up afterwards. Our family is very humbled and overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support received during this difficult time in our lives. We wish to let everyone know how loved and appreciated you are. Thank You!
