Michael Anthony Romano

Michael Anthony Romano, age 98 of Ambler, PA, devoted husband of Norlaine Romano, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, at the Sunrise Assisted Living at Blue Bell. Born in Black Horse, near Norristown, PA, he was the son of the late Giuseppe and the late Marie Antoinetta (nee

DiCicco) Romano. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rose J. Romano (nee Romano-no relation), in 1990. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Salvatore Romano and eight sisters, Mildred Romano, Antoinette Montella, Lee Rogan, Philomena Cimino, Katherine Hodges, Rose Riccioli, Grace Patti, and Caroline DeRosato.

Michael was a proud veteran of U.S. Army service in World War II. He served in the 619 Quartermaster Corps, 794th Anti Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion. His European theatre service included locations in North Africa, France, and Germany from 1943 to 1946. He attained the rank of Technician Four. He enjoyed reminiscing with

relatives and friends about his time overseas and sharing photos and memorabilia from his Army years. He described his wartime service in a 2005 video interview conducted by his daughter, Regina Romano Reynolds, which is now part of the Library of Congress Veterans History Project collection.

Michael, then known as “Mickey” to distinguish him from his brother-in-law Michael V. Romano, spent the early part of his working life at the Romano Brothers Fruit and Produce business in Norristown. When the business introduced frozen foods, he became manager of the company’s Frozen Foods Department. Following the closure of Romano Brothers in 1972, Michael became a machinist employed by the Duriron Manufacturing Company (later named Flowserve). After retiring from this position he worked part-time for Classic Coachwork of Ambler and Fort Washington until his early 90’s.

Family was always foremost in Michael’s life. In his later years, he would often lovingly speak of “the family” which had grown considerably as he became a grandfather, stepfather, step-grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was an excellent

carpenter who remodeled kitchens, built decks, crafted bookcases, solved plumbing problems, and laid tile floors. He gave generously of his time and talents to helping family and friends, whatever the circumstances. Michael’s outgoing personality also won him many friends who helped him celebrate at his 90th and 95th birthday parties. Three weeks before his passing, he enjoyed a visit by his children and grandchildren, with whom he shared stories of his long and full life.

Michael was a member of VFW 840 Bridgeport, PA, and Trinity Episcopal Church in Ambler, PA.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Norlaine E. (nee Hammel) Romano, children Joan Romano of Seattle, WA, Regina Romano Reynolds of Washington DC, and stepchildren Diane Schmidt of Ambler, PA, Bruce Schmidt of Ambler, PA, and Bill Schmidt of Bridgeville, DE. He is also survived by grandchildren Michael Moore and Elizabeth Losin, and step-grandchildren Amanda Otto, Eric Otto, Megan Otto, and Aaron Schmidt; and great-grandson Aldo Losin.

Relatives and friends are invited to call after 9:00 AM on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at the Ambler Church of the Brethren, 351 E. Butler Ave. Ambler PA 19002. The Funeral Service will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Emmanuel Williamson officiating. Interment will follow at Trinity Episcopal Church Memorial Garden.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in his name can be made to the American Diabetes Association, www. diabetes.org or the American Cancer Society https:// www.cancer.org.

Photos and tributes may be shared at www. UrbanFuneralHome.com