Antonio “Ray” Romero

Antonio “Ray” Romero, age 84, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton. It is with deep respect and gratitude that we remember Ray, a proud United States Air Force veteran whose love for aviation, country, and life itself never dimmed. He was born on August 29, 1941, to the late Christino and Mary Anne (Quintana) Romero in New Mexico.

From the time he was a young boy, Ray dreamed of flying. That dream became a lifelong passion, and he could identify aircraft like a walking encyclopedia. He never tired of talking about planes, flight, or the freedom of the sky. Serving in the U.S. Air Force was one of his greatest sources of pride, and he carried his patriotism with him every day of his life.

In his youth, Ray was highly athletic and especially loved basketball—a competitive spirit he carried into everything he did. He also had a softer, joyful side: he adored old black-and-white movies, loved to dance, and even won many dance contests with his mom—memories he cherished and spoke of often.

Ray enjoyed showing dogs, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, hunting, and any adventure that involved the outdoors or a little horsepower. He lived for movement, laughter, and stories worth telling. He was known for his unapologetic love of the restaurant Hooters—always insisting it was absolutely a family restaurant.

Above all, Ray was deeply patriotic and forever proud of his military service. His love for this country, his sense of humor, and his larger-than-life presence will be remembered by all who knew him.

Ray’s greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud. He followed their lives with genuine interest, celebrated their accomplishments, and never missed an opportunity to share stories about them. Whether offering encouragement, laughter, or quiet support, Ray took great pride in watching each of them grow and forge their own paths. His love for his grandchildren was unwavering, and his legacy will live on through them.

He leaves behind a legacy of service, passion, and authenticity—a man who chased his dreams, honored his country, and lived exactly on his own terms.

Ray is survived by his wife, Margaret Huybers-Romero; children: Mike (Bonnie) Romero, Steven Romero, Scott Romero, Keith (Jen Borree) Huybers, David (Miche’le) Huybers, and Ria (David) Vanden Heuvel; grandchildren: Skylynn (Joe) Weiland, BreAnne Romero, Chris (Jessica) Brasch, Chelsea Romero, Dawson Alderson, Anthony Romero, Kaylee Romero, Jordan (Emily) Ebben, Jamison Huybers, Hayden Huybers, and Evan Vanden Heuvel, ; great-grandchildren: Rowen Weiland, Everly Mae Weiland, Wyatt Brasch, Avery Romero Sutton, Eliana Ebben, Isabelle Ebben, and Lincoln Ebben; and siblings: Frank (Debbie) Romero and Penny Palmer. He was preceded in death by his previous wife, Barbara Romero; stepdaughter, Anna Huybers; and brothers, Ike and Rickey Romero.

Funeral services for Ray will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond Street, Appleton. Visitation will take place on Wednesday at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Full military honors will follow the service. Ray will be laid to rest at Appleton Highland Memorial Park.

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