Kenneth Wayne Romero

Kenneth "Ken" Wayne Romero, a devoted family man, natural leader, and pillar of love, passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 74. He was born on May 7, 1952, to Teofilo “Ted” and Sadie “Sallie” Romero. Ken lived a life defined by his immense heart, integrity, and unshakeable dedication to his family.

Ken grew up in Nampa, Idaho, attending local schools and graduating from Nampa High in 1970. His youth was filled with vibrant community spirit. He cherished fond memories of playing on his high school football team, working as a young (age 12) lifeguard at the city swimming pool, and helping run the local mini-golf course across from Lakeview Park with his brother, Bob. He also worked diligently with the Nampa Park Department, taking pride in keeping his hometown beautiful.

As a young boy, Ken loved attending rodeos with his father, once sharing a legendary walk through the park alongside his dad and the famous Western star, Gene Autry. He also reminisced of frequently traveling by train with his father to visit relatives, a special perk of his father’s job with the Union Pacific Railroad. During his summers, Ken traveled to Reno, Nevada, to stay with his older siblings and their families, Eddie and Betty Lane, and Ed and Shirley Romero. He spoke often and fondly of those Reno summers, recalling fishing trips and family fun.

During his senior year of high school, Ken met and fell in love with the love of his life, Elaine Simpson. Within a couple of years, and with their family’s blessing, the young couple eloped in Reno, Nevada, sparking a lifelong romance. They purchased a home in Middleton, Idaho, where they settled down to raise their three children: Mark, and twins, Karen and Kristina.

Ken was a provider and a rock for his family, working faithfully for nearly 30 years at the J.R. Simplot Company. He was a family man through and through, prioritizing quality time with his family, whether they were taking trips to the coast, going on fishing or camping excursions, or taking in an occasional rodeo or concert. He also fiercely supported each of his kids through all of their various sports and activities.

Upon retiring, Ken and Elaine moved back home to the Nampa area. While he thought retirement would bring slower days, "Grandpa Daycare" quickly took over. He happily watched his grandkids often as they frequently visited and at times lived with him. His grandchildren became his absolute pride and joy, and he loved each and every one of them deeply.

Ken was a natural encourager, a protector, and a man who insisted on absolute honesty and integrity. He modeled a "family first" mentality every day of his life. He always greeted people with a big smile and huge hug, and he was always quick to tease you or find a way to make you laugh—treasures his family will hold dear forever. Among some of the last words he spoke were, “I love you with all my heart,” a reflection of the way he lived every day of his life.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, as well as eight of his ten siblings, including five sisters and three brothers. He is survived by his wife, three children (and spouses), nine grandchildren, one great grandchild and another arriving very soon. He will be deeply missed by many, but his spirit lives on. We are comforted knowing that pieces of him shine through each of us, and we get to see his traits, his love, and his lasting legacy in one another every single day.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Canyon Hill Cemetery in Caldwell. Family and friends are invited to attend the graveside service as we honor Ken’s life, share memories, and celebrate an extraordinary man. A family reception is to follow at Flahiff Funeral Chapel, 624 Cleveland Blvd. in Caldwell. Services are under the care of Flahiff Funeral Chapel, Caldwell. (208) 459-0833