Leonela "Nellie" Romero

“Seeing is believing.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Leonela "Nellie" Romero, it summarized in every way who she was. She was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around her and always thinking before acting. She was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything she did. She was a friendly person who truly cared about those around her. She was the daughter of Frank and Placida Salazar. Raised in Cubero, New Mexico, she was brought up to be tolerant and trustworthy. Leonela was raised with seven siblings, Erlinda, Armelino, Mabel, Rita, Raymond, Fred and Pat. Love can’t be defined but must be experienced. That was so true for Leonela. On 1959 Leonela married Ralph G. She was totally committed to Ralph and maintained traditional ideals about marriage. It was as if Leonela naturally sensed her spouse’s needs, and accepted those feelings unconditionally. Leonela was a good mother to her children. She had “old fashioned” parental values and could handle typical family conflicts in a fair and calm manner. Leonela was blessed with four children, Melvin, Gilbert, Roland and Lori. They were also blessed with three granchildren, Timmy, Starra, and Savannah and three great-grandchildren Eli, Milo, Jasper. Her primary occupation was being a waitress. She was employed for Denny's for 30 years in Barstow, California. Favorite vacations included New Mexico, Minnesota, and going to Las Vegas. Leonela had Candy, a Chihuahua dog, who was her best friend for Four years. Leonela was as loyal to her pet as they were to her. Leonela passed away on August 30, 2015 at Victor Valley Hospital in Victorville, California. She is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years Ralph G. Romero, her brother Fred Salazar and her son Roland “Roro” Romero. She is survived by her children, Melvin, Gilbert (Gina), and Lori (Peter), her grandchildren Timmy (Jamie), Starra, and Savanna and her great-grandchildren Eli, Milo, and Jasper. Services were held at Mead Mortuary. Leonela was laid to rest at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California. She will be missed.