Donald Romano passed peacefully on Monday, January 27, 2020 with his devoted wife Mary by his side. Donald was born September 9, 1948 in Hartford, CT. He grew up in Manchester, graduating from Manchester High School and proudly served his country in Vietnam. Upon his return from the war, he worked in marketing at Glidden Paint Company, but the center of his life was his family.
Don was the ultimate family man. He was a devoted spouse, and put his family at the center of his life. He was known for his love of the holidays and worked to bring a sense of joy and celebration into the lives of his wife, children, and grandchildren. When his children were young, he could always be seen with them out in the yard playing kickball or shooting hoops as they grew older, he continued to be part of their lives whether watching sporting events together or grilling out in the backyard at family picnics. His love only intensified when his grandsons were born. Whether attending their basketball, soccer, or lacrosse games, listening to their musical concerts, picking them up from school, or spending an afternoon with them, the time he spent with his grandsons were some of his happiest.
Don spent wonderful times playing cards with his brothers and sisters and golfing with his friend Steve. He adored his dogs and was such a tremendous animal lover, his children often credited him for keeping up the deer population in East Hartford. A generous and thoughtful neighbor and friend, Don could be counted on to help anyone in need. His family asks that those he has touched honor his memory by doing an act of kindness for someone, as Donald’s consistent acts of kindness and generosity have left this world for another.
Don is survived by his wife of 47 years Mary Greene, along with his children, Kelly Celio and her husband Peter of Hebron and Michael Romano and his wife Kimberly of Ellington. Also left to mourn his loss are his brothers Richard Romano (Joan) and David Romano (Beverly), along with his sisters Paula Burke and Lori Krewalk (Kenny). He will be dearly missed by his beloved grandsons, Jack and James Celio, Aidan and Connor Romano, and Jordan Valle. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Grace Romano, brother Robert Romano, and his much loved dogs Mitzy and Brandy.
A funeral service celebrating Don’s life will be Friday, January 31, 2020 at 11 am at the D’ESOPO-East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford. Burial with military honors will follow at the Veteran’s Memorial Field #2 @ Silver Lane Cemetery, East Hartford. Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 30, 2020 from 4-7 pm at the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Donald’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. For any on-line expressions of sympathy to the family please visit www.desopoeh.com.
