Mario Romero, beloved son of Luis María Romero Agudelo and María del Tránsito Romero de Romero, was born on December 24, 1938.
He lived a life full of passion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family and friends. He shared a beautiful life with his first wife, Rosa Elvira Guevara, whom he married on January 14, 1961. Together, they lovingly raised three daughters: Sandra, Ximena, and Erika. Mario was a devoted brother to Carlos Augusto, Rosa Inés, María Elisa, and Luis Guillermo.
Born and raised in Fómeque, Cundinamarca, he excelled academically and graduated as a teacher in November 1958 from the Superior Normal for Men of Fómeque. A well-rounded student, he stood out for his academic achievements, his skills as a soccer and table tennis player, and his involvement in the school choir. His love for music and instruments, particularly the accordion and guitar, remained a vital part of his life.
He was also known for his adventurous spirit, especially his passion for horseback riding. Mario’s life was intertwined with faith and community, and he maintained close relationships with influential figures like Monsignor Agustín Gutiérrez and Father Alberto Reyes Fonseca. His teaching career began in Une, Cundinamarca, in 1959 and took him through various schools, where he became a cherished educator. In 1967, he moved to Bogotá and settled in the Castilla neighborhood, where he worked as a teacher on commission at the Tihamer Toth College of Priests in the north of Bogotá. On February 13, 1970, Mario was transferred to the Seminary College of the Diocese of Facatativá, Cundinamarca, under the direction of Monsignor Zambrano Camader as Bishop and Father Jose Ignacio Guerrero as Rector.
Mario served as Secretary and Teacher, and thanks to his influence, his brother Guillermo joined the faculty as a mathematics teacher in February 1972. During this time, Mario and his wife, Rosa Elvira, founded and directed a primary school, Liceo Infantil de Castilla, until their departure to the United States in 1973. His commitment to teaching and his influence on students were a testament to his dedication and passion for education. In 1973, Mario made the courageous decision to relocate to the United States, determined to create a better life for his family. Starting from scratch and learning a new language, he worked hard, prospering and building a wonderful life for his loved ones.
In Upper Saddle River, Mario worked for the Paleys and at Texwipe, where he thrived professionally and eventually retired before moving to Florida. Through resilience and dedication, Mario not only provided for his family but also nurtured a home filled with warmth and opportunity. Later in life, Mario married Aura Escobar and spent 19 years with her. Their relationship was filled with love, support, and shared memories, adding another chapter of joy to Mario’s incredible journey. He filled his life with music and memories, often organizing serenades for loved ones during holidays and spending unforgettable nights at the family farm in San Lorenzo.
Mario’s love for music brought his family and friends together, as they played instruments and celebrated life. Mario also had a deep love for camping, which he shared with his family and friends. His camping adventures created countless fond memories, from trips to the Poconos to vacations in Wildwood. What began as simple camping trips with tents evolved into “glamping” with his 30 ft camper, which brought comfort and style to their outdoor experiences. These adventures with the camper created joy and connection, strengthening bonds and creating stories that would be told for years to come.
While living in Summerfield, Mario found joy in training and riding his beloved horse, Princesa, even after undergoing two knee replacements. His determination and passion for horseback riding were evident as he continued to ride Princesa until she threw him one too many times. Despite the challenges, his love for animals never wavered. He also had a loyal donkey named Estrella, who added to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of his life in Summerfield. Mario adopted Mamma, and they became inseparable.
Mamma was his devoted “service dog,” fiercely guarding him and his home. Their bond was unbreakable, and she brought him immense joy and companionship, always by his side through every moment. Mario was always independent and enjoyed life in his own way. Up until the end, he rode his tractor, cut his own lawn, and took immense pride in his beautifully maintained grounds and his crape myrtles. He loved his pool and spent countless hours swimming and cleaning it, always with Mamma faithfully watching over him.
Mario’s greatest joy came from his daughters, Sandra, Ximena, and Erika. He cherished every moment with them and was always up for a piña colada to celebrate life. He also adored his grandchildren: Brandon, Hannah, Justin, Joshua, Jacob, Kaitlyn, and Sarah. He loved recounting his escapades to them, sharing stories of his adventures and misadventures, and creating lasting memories. His musical and teaching legacy is continued by his grandchildren, who carry forward his love for learning and the arts.
He took immense pride in watching them grow and thrive, sharing in their accomplishments and celebrating every moment together. Mario Romero passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 3rd. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, teacher, and adventurer. His generous spirit, musical soul, and love for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Mario, R.I.P.