Dr. Leonardo Romero's Obituary
Dr. Leonardo Fabian Romero, age 57, passed away unexpectedly in early October 2025. He was born in Mendoza, Argentina in November 1967, and moved to Santa Maria, California at the age of six where he spent most of his childhood. In 1992, he moved to Washington where he resided for the rest of his days.
An altar boy for several years, Leo grew up going to St. Mary’s where he would meet his former wife Francine. The two would go on to attend St. Joseph’s High School together. After Leo graduated from Cleveland Chiropractic College in Los Angeles, the young couple moved to Washington State where he pursued his dream of opening his own practice. Shortly before the birth of their first daughter in 1994, he opened the first of many clinics now known as Chiropractic Physicians. These clinics were not only his livelihood, but his passion, and provided first jobs to all three of his daughters.
In his 30+ years of experience, Dr. Romero prided himself as a practitioner and clinic owner. He also worked extensively as an expert witness and medical legal consultant on cases throughout the United States. From serving as a Commission Member and then the Chairman at the Department of Health, to working on test committees for the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, to sponsoring local soccer leagues, Dr. Romero was always busy trying to better his local and professional communities. Being a Spanish speaking immigrant himself, he was especially passionate about serving the Hispanic community and ensuring excellent care to his patients. Regardless of someone’s spoken language, ability to pay, or legal status, Dr. Romero never turned down a patient in need.
An active member of the University of Western States, Dr. Romero also served on the Board of Trustees for many years, including Chairman of the Board in 2013. He valued education and giving back to his community above all else. To provide students with a dedicated space to learn and practice essential clinical skills, he sponsored the creation of The Romero Assessment Center. After his time on the Board, Dr. Romero was awarded the honorary title of Trustee Emeritus, recognizing him for his outstanding contributions. He was invited to speak at the American College of Chiropractic Consultants Conference this year, and was so excited to do so.
As an avid outdoorsman, Leo was happiest out in the woods, hunting, fishing, and simply enjoying the quiet and beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Those who knew him professionally were surprised to know that when he was not in a suit, he lived in flannels, carhartts and cowboy boots. He loved BMWs, Van Halen, home cooked food, working on cars, and spending quality time with his loved ones. Leo was well-rounded and somehow excelled in everything that he did. Anyone who knew him would agree that he was one of the most talented, driven and generous people they had ever met.
Leo is survived and missed by his three daughters Isabella, Dominique and Maria; girlfriend Leann; German sheppard Mila; and his first and only granddaughter Anna Maria. He will be forever cherished and remembered by his parents Marisa and Julio, and his siblings Marcelo, Javier and Lorena. His nephews, godsons, and many more who considered Leo family will also long mourn his loss— he was a friend, mentor, and inspiration to so many.
Leo’s family appreciates your presence in honoring and celebrating his life at the memorial service to be held at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church on Wednesday November 5th at 11am. May his legacy carry on forever and remind us to never stop learning, always seek out opportunities to better ourselves, and take ownership of our decisions.
“May the work I have done speak for me”
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