Patricia Ruth Romero, 66, passed away Tuesday, September 22, 2020, with friends and family at her side. She is survived by her husband, John Anthony Romero, and their two daughters, Tracey Jae and Samantha Rose Romero.

Patti was born on March 24, 1954, in San Jose, CA, to James Wilford and Norma Lee Martin. As the middle child of five, Patti learned how to capture attention with her wit and personality. She dedicated her piano-playing and singing to her worship of the Lord. Patti tried her hand at multiple horticultural endeavors, ranging from a vegetable garden with her sister, Barbara, to orchid hydroponics. Beginning with the summers she spent as a teenager in the Santa Cruz mountains, Patti also found community among the trees.

She met John in 1982. Their first and second dates went so well that the story goes Patti left her hairbrush in John's truck to ensure that he would see her again. Soon after, during a family camping trip, John secured his position in Patti's family by rising to a challenge from an uncle: "If you want to be a part of this family, you have to hit a home run." John knocked the ball out of the park and right into his new truck; Patti was the one who had parked it next to the field. They married June 1, 1985, and had two children. Patti considered her greatest achievements and favorite creations to be her two beautiful daughters.

Patti was preceded in death by her father and her mother. Through her contributions to her orchid community, local churches, and business ventures, she made a meaningful impact on a number of people. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Sempervirens Fund at www.sempervirens.org.