Johnny Romeri, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 in Merced, California. He was born in Merced, California to Ado and Norma Romeri on November 28, 1944. He was the oldest of five children.
Johnny attended Dairyland School and graduated from Chowchilla High School in 1962. He was drafted into the Army at age 21 and completed Basic Training at Fort Ord. He survived combat in the Vietnam War, and was a part of the 1st Infantry Big Red One.
Johnny began farming at six years old alongside his father and grandfather. He continued to farm with his brother until age 78, but was not interested in officially retiring. Farming was in his blood and he loved every minute of it, every hour, day, season and year. With what little downtime he had, Johnny enjoyed hunting in Montana, fishing, and an era of cruising. Johnny also enjoyed sharing a good cigar in the company of family and friends.
Johnny refused to own a cell phone, but was always up for a roadside chat, wearing his iconic white shirt. He never met a stranger. As a true farmer, he could repair anything with supplies on hand. He had his own system of keeping records with a Number 2 pencil.
Johnny is survived by his wife of 56 years, Linda, his four daughters Kim Valladao (Roger), Kristina Dritsas (Kurt), Karen Upton (Derrick) and Karla Wheeler (Tim, deceased), 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, his sisters Barbara Tipton (Roy), Rose Barker, and his brother Anthony (Sheila) and many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Johnny was preceded in death by his father Ado, his mother Norma, and his sister Patty Ann.
You all might recognize some Johnny-isms:
- I’ll tell you what…..
- You better believe it….
- 2.2 seconds
- You got that right
- Let me show you a trick
- I said Ooooooh Boy!
- Whaaaaaat?!?!?
- You have got to be kidding me
- And to his daughters growing up - Stop your Boo-hoo-ing
He may be gone from our lives, but never from our hearts.
A Graveside Service with Army Honors will be held at Chowchilla District Cemetery, 23359 Rd 14 1/2, Chowchilla, California, on September 3, 2026, at 11:00 am.
Please join us in remembering Johnny Romeri by visiting our Memorial at www.wordenchapel.com
Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Romeri Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger
