David Martin Romanko

David Martin Romanko, 91 years, of Colora, MD, passed away peacefully June 29, 2021 at his residence in the Ware Presbyterian Village. Born November 11, 1929 in Dieners Hill, PA, he was the son of the late Anna and George Romanko.

David was the 2nd youngest of 9 children. He was married to his high school sweet heart, Helen, for 61 years who preceded him in death in 2011. They moved to Levittown, PA, in 1953 to raise their family. 

David was the loving father of Paula (of late Bill) from Marlton, NJ, Beth (Dave) Langhorne, PA, Mary Ellen (Jeffrey), Colora, MD, Diane (Roger), Levittown, PA, David (Laura), Morrisville, PA, Michael (Ron), Fort Lauderdale, FL, George (Tom) Palm Springs, CA. His family includes 13 grandchildren, Michelle, Michael, Joshua, Krystyna, Danny, Justin, Stephanie, Lys, Katie, Kevin, Matt, Jillian, Gabby, and 15 great grandchildren, Robbie, Julia, Ryan, Alex, Kara, Emma, Tommy, Eila, Addie, Royce, Cecilia, Sage, Remy, Bruin, Langston, Bryce, Faye due in November, and one great grandchild due in December. He was the favorite Uncle “Marty” to many wonderful nieces and nephews. David created many fond memories with his in laws. He is survived by sister-in-law, Josephine, and brother-in-law, Howard. He was loved by many and enjoyed numerous friendships.

His family was always first. He had a creative way to find fun and joy in everyday moments.  David was a master at creating experiences to entertain his children and grandchildren and taught us that time together is the most important thing in life to treasure and value.  He leaves a legacy of memories, stories and examples of love.

David embraced and lived his Catholic faith. He and his wife were founding members of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, Bristol, PA, where he was a member of the Holy Name Society. After moving to Cecil County, he and Helen became parishioners of the Good Shepherd Catholic Church of Perryville, MD.  David helped to establish the current Food pantry for the St. Vincent de Paul chapter in Perryville, MD, and he also served as President for many years.  He was an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the sick. David was an Honorary Life member of Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus of the Havre de Grace chapter.  

He proudly served his country as a member of the Army Reserves. He retired in 1985 as a Lieutenant Colonel.  His military education included various Ordinance courses. David was also a graduate of the Command and General Staff School, USAF Air War College.  Prior to his military retirement, he was assigned to U.S Army Development and Readiness Command Alexandria, VA, as a MOBDES Officer.

David had a professional management career and retired from the New Jersey Department of Labor.  His civilian education included AA, Industrial Management, and BS in Commerce and Industry from Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ.  He completed his education while raising his family, working full time and an active member of the Army Reserves. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St Vincent de Paul Society in care of Lee A. Patterson and Son Funeral Home, P.A., P.O. Box 766, Perryville, MD 21903-0766.

Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, July 5, 2021, 12 Noon, at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church of Perryville, MD. Visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, July 5, 2021, 11AM until 12 Noon, at the church prior to the Mass. Father Jay McKee of the Good Shepherd Parish of Perryville, MD, will officiate. Interment will be in West Nottingham Cemetery, Colora, MD.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Martin Romanko, please visit our floral store.