Peter J. Romano, II, MD, 56, of Fort Lauderdale, FL, lost his life in an accident on his family's farm in New Hampshire on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Dr. Romano was born in Bangor, ME, and raised in Holland, MI.
Dr. Romano graduated from Holland High School, where he was valedictorian and class president. He received an undergraduate degree from Kalamazoo College, where he was captain of the swim team and valedictorian, before pursuing his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Romano completed his residency at the University of California Los Angeles and a fellowship in Pediatric Orthopaedics at Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital in Orlando, FL. Dr. Romano was Board Certified by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery, and practiced as an internationally recognized pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.
Through South Florida Children's Orthopaedics, Dr. Romano was well-known as a highly skilled, knowledgeable surgeon and dedicated physician, who was deeply appreciated by his young patients and their parents, and held in high esteem by his staff and his peers in the medical profession. Dr. Romano humbly served his community, and volunteered internationally on humanistic endeavors.
Peter was a role model husband, father, and community leader. He lived life to its fullest and was passionate about his family. Peter was involved in every aspect of his children's lives, and inspired them to pursue their dreams. He found immense joy in watching his daughters dance, and his son play baseball. He shared his passion for Valente Brothers jiu-jitsu with his three children. Peter's devotion to community was evident through his many contributions. He coached Little League Baseball, Softball, Upward Soccer and Basketball. He was an enthusiastic member of both the Indian Guide Apalachicola Tribe and Indian Princess Fox Tribe, and served on the Christ Church School Board for six years.
Peter is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Catherine; three beautiful children, Sofia (16), Isabella (14), Nicolò (10); his parents, Peter J. Romano (Lynne) and Tara S. Romano; brothers Rex (Sherry) and Rob; parents-in-law Walter and Margaret Plucenik, sister-in-law Emilee Foster (William), brother-in-law John Plucenik (Petra); nieces and nephews, Kristen, Alex, Danielle, Danny, Drena, Joshua, Rachael, John Jr. and numerous aunts and uncles.
Peter opened his heart and made time for everyone he met. His family, friends, colleagues, and patients have lost a humble, generous, and caring man whose passion, enthusiasm, and love for all will live on in those who were fortunate to know him.