Obituary: Vivian M. Romero

December 4, 1921 - December 2, 2010

Vivian M. Romero completed her life journey Dec. 2, 2010, two days shy of her 89 birthday in Omaha, Neb. surrounded by friends and family. Those who knew and loved her called her Viv. After the passing of her husband George in 2003, Viv left Carson City and returned to her childhood home of Omaha to be closer to family.

Viv was one of four children and lived a magical life during her nearly 90 years. She served our country in the U.S. Army with distinction in the Women's Auxiliary Air Corp during World War II and traveled throughout the South Pacific. She served in communications as a telephone switchboard operator in New Guinea and Luzon. She received numerous military awards and honors including the American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon, two bronze stars, two overseas bars, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon. To talk to Viv about those years was truly a privilege; she was a living legend and a piece of our nation's history. She loved the military and took great pride in her service to our country.

After the war Viv returned to Nebraska to attend business school in Omaha and then became an instructor at Davis Business School from 1948 to 1961. In 1961 she married George Romero and left Omaha, living in Palmdale, Calif., and various other places before landing in Nevada.

Viv and George Romero came to Carson City in 1974. Most of us remember Viv as a Realtor with Jim Wilson Realty here in Carson City where she worked for many years. Viv regularly donated her time to worthwhile causes such as the Carson Tahoe Hospital Auxiliary serving as president of that organization in 1989. She also gave back to society by serving the Women's Overseas Service League, presenting ROTC medals and awards at high school graduations, and participating in countless Veterans Day celebrations and parades. She was a true patriot.

Viv will be remembered best as a great friend to so many here in Carson City. Always full of laughter and smiles, she could brighten anyone's day. She loved to have fun and was up for anything from golf to cocktails to Hawaiian vacations, which she loved dearly. Her passion for life was contagious and inspirational and the remembrance of her raucous laughter will ring in our minds and warm our hearts forever. Viv was laid to rest with Military Honors alongside her beloved husband George at Calvary Cemetery in Omaha.