It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Christopher Romero (age 52). Joseph passed away from a lengthy illness at Rust Presbyterian Medical Center in Rio Rancho on Wednesday, June 21, 2023.

Joseph was a lifetime resident of Las Vegas and a devoted catholic at Our Lady of Sorrows. He was born on September 6, 1970 in Albuquerque to Ismael "Smiley" Romero and Margaret Montaño-Gutierrez. Joseph was an only child. He is preceded in death by his father, Ismael Romero, paternal grandmother, Modesta Romero, maternal grandparents Lugardo and Pomposa Montaño, and special aunts Claudina Montaño, Candida Lopez, uncles Telesfor Montaño, and Alfonso Montaño.

Joseph is survived by his mother, Margaret Montaño-Gutierrez, and step-dad, Richard D. Gutierrez. Joseph is also survived by his two daughters, Michelle Romero of Clovis, and Maya Romero (Bradford Holloway of Tennessee). Stepbrothers, Martin J. Gutierrez, Richard F. Gutierrez, and step-sister Josylln Gutierrez. Joseph is also survived by special cousins Johnny Lopez (Terry), Edward Lopez, and David Lopez of Albuquerque whom Joseph thought of as being like his brothers. Joseph is also survived by his dog, "Peanut" whom was his constant companion and he loved greatly. Joseph is also survived by his concert buddy, Leonard Lopez and good friend Andrew Trujillo. Joseph is survived by many other numerous nieces, cousins, and friends who were never forgotten and all had a special place in his heart.

Joseph graduated from West Las Vegas High School in 1988; his school years were full of fun and of course studying. He joined band and played trumpet. He was not much of a sports guy, but he did love playing baseball and enjoyed all their winnings and championships. Joseph was a fast runner and this is where he got his nickname "Flash". After graduating high school, Joseph left little Las Vegas and moved to big Las Vegas to become a culinary arts cook. Joseph loved his job and his specialty was Chicken Alfredo, green chile salsa, and preparing steaks. After two years in Las Vegas, Nevada, he continued cooking for the United World College of the American West, K-Bob's and many other restaurants. In 2017, he was diagnosed with a long-term illness. For the next six years, Joseph did his best to continue living his life to the fullest. Joseph took a turn for the worse in May of this year, where daily life became very hard for him. During this time Joseph was cared for at home by his mother, Margaret and step-dad Richard. They loved Joseph greatly and spent the last two months of his life helping him as much as they could to provide for his needs. Joseph was a kind person and he was very grateful for the family members and special friends that visited him and supported him during his darkest hours. Joseph will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, especially his beloved mother, and stepfather. We would like Joseph to be remembered for being an easy-going person, who loved life, and was happiest when he was riding his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle and spending time with his family.

On behalf of the Montaño and Gutierrez families, we wish to thank all of the special relatives and friends who supported Joseph and helped him in this life. Joseph will be greatly missed and we are grateful that he made this world a better place. Please remember to mention Joseph in your prayers. May he rest in eternal peace.

We would like to send a big thanks to Ray Marrujo for all his help.

Rosary will be recited on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at 9:00am, funeral mass will follow both services will be held at Rogers Mortuary Chapel in Las Vegas, NM with Father Cameron Degani as celebrant.

Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers Johnny Lopez, David Lopez, Adam Lucero, Orlando Gold, Bobby Varela, and Arthur Mondragon. Honorary pallbearers will be Richard F. Gutierrez, Manuel Archuleta, Eric Kenesevich, Lawrence Montano, Marvin Shelton, Warren Wilson, and Joe Aragon.

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.