Stanley Joseph Romanek Jr.

Joe Romanek (93) of Annapolis MD passed away on Feb. 27, 2024. He is preceded in death by his wife, Gail Ann Romanek, son Brian Romanek (Terri), sisters Patsy Bailer and Barbara Keane. He is survived by his companion, Ruth Worthington, his children, Wayne Romanek (Lori), Scott Romanek (Sissy), Leslie Schlossberg (Joel), his 11 grandchildren; Michele Buckley (John), Matthew Romanek, Marissa Herritt (Jake), Lynsie Romanek, Kyle Romanek, Alyssa Murchake (Chris), Paige Romanek, Zak Romanek, Noah Schlossberg, Jack Schlossberg (Laura), Abbie Schlossberg, and 4 great grandchildren; Caroline Murchake, Lilly Murchake, Summer Buckley, Zeke Herritt.

Joe was a native of Washington DC, he was born and raised in the Northeast neighborhood of Brookland. His lifelong friends all lived within a few blocks of each other. He attended St. Anthony Catholic School and later attended McKinley Tech High school. He lived directly across the street from St. Joseph Seminary where he spent much of his childhood. He became friends with many of the priests, in fact, he was invited to several of their ordination ceremonies. At McKinley Tech he played football and made the 15th annual All-High football team in 1948. At the start of the Korean War, Joe and many of his friends enlisted in the Armed Forces. Joe chose the US Navy where he served for 5 years. There was a local hangout bar, Pat’s Tavern and recruiters came to the bar one day where he and his friends lined up and enlisted together.

February 11, 1956 he married Gail Ann Payne at St. Anthony Church which was a special place for him. They were married for 38 years before her passing. They had 4 children who were raised in Berwyn Heights Maryland then later moved to the Annapolis area. After Gail’s passing, he found companionship of 25 years with Ruth Worthington. Together they spent their golden years. Joe taught his children and grandchildren the love of boating, crabbing, and fishing. He was an integral part of each of their lives and was loved by everyone who met him. He was the kindest man and respected by all.

A private service will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.