Dave Romero, Jr. born on October 21, 1952, in Las Vegas, New Mexico to Dave and Mollie Romero, was a beloved husband, father, brother, adventurer, and friend He passed away on November 21st, 2024 at Christus St. Vincent's Hospital in Santa Fe surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Dave attended West Las Vegas High School, where he graduated in 1970. From there, he pursued his undergraduate studies at New Mexico Highlands University, setting the stage for a lifelong passion for learning and excellence. In 1978, he earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of New Mexico's School of Law, embarking on what would become a distinguished and impactful career. He later attended Columbia University's School of Business, where he completed the first year of the Master of Business Administration program before transferring to Harvard. In 1985, he graduated from the Harvard School of Government with a Master of Public Administration.

Dave considered himself to be a plaintiff's attorney and was a member of the state and national trial lawyers association. He always preferred representing the individual against the larger insurance law firms. He always advocated for the underdog. He has always been a politician at heart, and because of his political expertise was employed by many governmental entities throughout his career. He served as General Counsel for the largest regulatory body in New Mexico also known as the Corporation Commission. He was also the General Counsel for the State Treasurer, the State Auditor and the Association of Counties.

Regarding local government he has been the City Attorney for most communities in Northeastern, New Mexico. Most recently he served as San Miguel County Attorney for 5 years and City Attorney for Las Vegas for more than 8 years. He was president of the New Mexico Municipal Attorney's Association. Dave also has many years of court appointments in State Custody cases where he represented fathers and mothers who were accused of abuse and neglect. In this process, he also served the children as Guardian ad Litem and Youth Attorney. He has also worked in the mental health legal field where he has protected the due process rights of those committed to the state mental institution.

Dave was known for his competitive spirit; he turned even the simplest moments into fun experiences. At the local rec center, he often bet a Gatorade over a friendly game of racquetball, turning every match into a joyful occasion. He was a proud lover of New Mexican cuisine, he could often be found at Hillcrest, savoring a good meal, reading the paper, and sipping coffee. He just didn't like his green chile too hot. Those early mornings reflected his appreciation for life's simple pleasures and his ability to find contentment in the everyday.

He loved to adventure, even if it meant taking the long route for the scenic view on road trips. He also brought the same sense of his dedication to his role as a father, showing up to every sports event and practice for his children. His presence was always felt. His forgiving nature and
unwavering ability to put others first touched everyone he met, leaving a mark on the lives of those who knew him.

Dave is survived by his wife, Diane Lujan-Romero, his daughters, Melyora Trujillo and Raven Romero, his son Dave Romero, III and his grandson Easton Romero. He is also survived by his brothers, Pete Romero and wife Carla Romero, Martin Lopez and wife Sally Lopez. His nieces and nephews, Kimberly Rosales (Edgar), David Romero (Stephanie), Kelly Giesler (Alex), Kristen Nguyen (Brian), Amadeus 'Amadeo' Lopez and Alizandra 'Ali' Lopez and his numerous cousins whom he loved dearly.

Services for Dave will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, beginning with a rosary at 10:00 am to be followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Las Vegas, New Mexico with Father Rob Yaksich as celebrant. Interment will take place at a later date, with the following serving as pallbearers: Cip Lujan, David Romero, Amadeo Lopez, Ruben Gallegos, James Nash Gutierrez, Roderick Lujan, Julio Velez and Tim Dodge.

For those who are unable to attend, the services will be live streamed at the OLOS website.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary, 600 Reynolds Ave., Las Vegas, NM 87701, 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.

If sending a sympathy card to the family via our online service you may send directly to the family by clicking "Send to Family Address".