Obituary of William Romano

Romano, William “Bill”, 79, of Apollo Beach FL passed away January 6, 2024, at Pepin Heart Institute, Tampa FL.  Bill epitomized through his actions the philosophy of Faith, Family and Service.

Bill’s faith was exemplified from his time in the seminary and sharing his faith with 27 years advocating for Catholic Youth Ministries, culminating with being a Regional Director for Penobscot Maine region. In addition to active participation within his church, he also achieved the rank of 4^th degree Knight of Columbus and served as a Grand Knight.

Bill dedicated his life to his family.  Through his words and actions, he instilled his caring nature, his sense of adventure, and his strong sense of duty in his immediate and extended family. Bill was always there for his family, caring for us when ill; leading adventures in boating, snowmobiling, ATVing, hobbies, vacationing, or time at the family camp; or just sharing his skills and advice.  He truly made a wonderful life full of rich experiences for himself and his family.

Bill was a dedicated public servant and protector with over 37 years with the fire services.  Bill retired from the Maine State Fire Marshals Office in 2011 and served 20 years with the Bangor ME fire department.  In addition, Bill served his hometown community of Hampden, ME with roles as a reserve police officer, town counselor, and mayor of 12 years.  Bill served 8 years in the United States Air Force serving in Southeast Asia and Pentagon, and with the Air National Guard fire and emergency services at Bangor International Airport.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gertrude Romano and his grandson Andrew Wakeland.  Bill is survived by his wife of 57 years Lorraine; daughter Laurie Seekins and her husband Michael, daughter Lisa Wakeland, and son Tom Romano and his wife Allison; siblings Judith Gray and Ed Romano; grandchildren Kaitlynn Colson, John Seekins, and Seith Wakeland; great-grandchildren Samuel and Avery Colson, Connor and Matthew Seekins, Zachery and Isabella Wakeland. 

Thank you Bill, for all you have given us.

There will be a Funeral Mass on Febuary 3, 2024 10 am at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 702 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center, FL 33573.  In addition there will be an inurnment ceremony in the summer of 2024 when Bill is laid to rest within the family columbarium in Bangor ME.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your preferred charity in Bill’s name.