Romeo Ballesteros Roxas

Born in the Philippines on April 15, 1940, Romeo "Rommy" Ballesteros Roxas leaves behind a legacy of joy and accomplishment.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Merci, his son Rome, and his daughters Rosanne, Reason, and Rochelle, and their mother Rickie Nicholas. He was a cherished grandfather to Donovan, Kevin, Ben, Gia, and Isaac.

Rommy is also survived by his brother Temie Boy, sister Lulu, and sister-in-law Aida, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He received his education at prestigious institutions, including St. Louis in Baguio City, Malate Catholic School in Manila, and De La Salle College. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santo Tomas. While he briefly pursued a career in chemistry, his true passion lay in sales. He held positions at esteemed companies such as Business Office Machines, 3M, Mobil Oil, and Goodyear, before transitioning to the electronics industry. Later in life, he enjoyed a part-time role at Spanos Driving Range in Stockton, where he cherished the opportunity to play golf and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

As President and Founder of the Alliance of Golfers of Northern California (AGNC), Rommy organized annual golf trips to the Philippines, sponsored by Philippine Airlines,and was an avid golfer himself. He was also a passionate fan of college and professional football. The San Francisco 49ers was his favorite team, and we had so many great memories of watching the Superbowls with him.

Rommy's artistic talents shone brightly. He was a proud member of the renowned Bayanihan Dance Troupe, serving as an ambassador of Philippine culture through dance, music, and song. The troupe embarked on international tours, including a memorable journey to Russia, where Rommy showcased his skills as a dancer, singer, and instrumentalist. He also played a pivotal role as an instructor for Tamaraw, a vibrant Filipino dance group, and for the Hiyas ng Pilipinas dance company. His passion for performance extended to the theater, where he graced the stage in productions such as "Pacific Overtures" where he played a supporting lead role where he performed the song “Four Black Dragons” and other local plays.

Following in the footsteps of his father, Silvestre Roxas, a celebrated jazz musician, Rommy developed a deep appreciation for music. He was highly regarded by most who knew him for his musicality and showmanship. He was a talented multi-instrumentalist, proficient in piano, guitar, nose flute, congas, bongos, and traditional Filipino instruments like the marimba and kulintangan. His unique vocal style was inspired by some of the greatest musicians of all time such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, & Andy Williams.

Rommy had a heart of gold and had a subtle way of making others around him feel so special. He was a man of very few words, but when he spoke, he meant it. You felt the care, warmth and strength from his sheer presence. His energy, quick wit, charm and talent lit up any room and we will forever miss him. Even though his time on earth came to end, “The Best Is Yet To Come.”