I, Deborah K. (Jero) Romme, went to heaven on August 19, 2025. I was born on February 7, 1951, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the daughter of Arnold (Arnie) and Geraldine (Jerry Comeaux) Jero. I grew up in Oshkosh and remained in the area all my life, surrounded by family and the beauty of Wisconsin's four seasons. I loved our rural homes, where walking the country roads gave me peace and serenity.
My husband, James "Jim" R. Romme and I were married on May 31, 1974. With deep love and respect, I leave before him; but to him, these years apart will seem only a moment in time. Together, we shared 51 wonderful years.
We have two wonderful, beloved daughters who filled our lives with many memories over the years: Melanie Marie (Jason) Beahm and Melissa Lee (Chad) Bowman.
Life has come full circle for us, with the blessing of five 'grand' sons and one 'grand' daughter, the Beahm boys—Brandyn James, Logan William and Dawson Ray Beahm; the Bowman boys—Jacob West and Ethan West; and our lovely princess, Hazel Marie Bowman. I enjoyed each of their personalities as they grew.
My family was always at the center of my life. I have two sisters and I am the middle child between them; they are Cheryl L. Durkee and Jamie A. (Richard) Paulsen. I cherished our girl times together and couldn't imagine not having them as my sisters in life. My extended family included my in-laws, Sue (Richard) Rutledge, Carol (Tom) Bast and Tom (Audra) Romme; and my step-in-law, Jan Jero; my godchildren, Troy Durkee of Stevens Point and Sara (Romme) Pech of Milwaukee; and many nieces and nephews. I loved the big Romme Christmases and the lessons I learned from Jim's mom, Bernice, and his sisters. They all are great cooks and organizers!
My faith was central to my life. I attended First English Lutheran Church from birth to beyond my confirmation, later joining Calvary Lutheran Church. After marrying Jim, we worshiped at Peace Lutheran for about 20 years before joining All Saints Lutheran Church. I found joy in serving through Bible studies, women's groups, teaching youth bible school and helping tend the gardens at the churches we attended.
For many years, I was blessed to be a stay-at-home mother. I also enjoyed many activities, including 25 years at Scandia Spa, serving as PTA secretary at Green Meadow School and taking macramé, crocheting and decorative painting classes at FVTC. I participated in Bible Study, Garden Club and a social group called the "Wanna Have Fun Girls" (Red Hatters). Over my lifetime, I worked at the Pioneer Inn, Oshkosh Truck, Landmark Staffing, and FVTC for the Quest Program. In my later years, one of my greatest joys was helping care for our grandchildren while our daughters—both teachers—were working.
At Heaven's Gate, I look forward to reuniting with my brothers, Gary L. Jero and Bruce Jero; my sister, Beverly (Jero) Wales; my parents, Arnie and Jerry Jero; my in-laws, Ray and Bernice Romme; Jim's brother and wife, Bill and Jean Romme, who helped build our home on Clay Road; Jim's sister and husband, Mary and Bill Davis; and my dear friend, Jack Yaple.
My life was deeply touched by many special friendships—Karen and John Berger of Armanda, MI, Judy Yaple of Erie, PA, Sue Ertmer, who spent countless hours with me crafting, dancing and laughing, my Bible Study group, my art friends and the dear friends I cherished through our monthly lunches. You know who you are; I care for all of you and enjoyed our time together. My life was enriched by each of you and your friendships more than you know; my prayers will be with all of you until we meet again.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to ThedaCare Hospice, especially Angie Toma and Stacy Stone, and to Mary Helms, Deborah's devoted companion, friend, and caregiver. They are truly angels on Earth, offering guidance, compassion, and comfort during one of life's most difficult journeys. Their care will never be forgotten.
A funeral will be held on September 18, 2025 at All Saints Lutheran Church, 1072 Honey Creek Rd, Oshkosh, WI. Visitation will take place from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, with a service to follow. A private family burial will be held on September 19, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in Deborah's name be directed to the ThedaCare Family of Foundations, with designation to Hospice. Donations may be made online at
https://thedacare.org/about-us/giving/donate/
. Any monetary gifts received by the family will also be donated to Hospice in Deborah's honor.
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