Vilelmina Victoria Romero

Vilelmina Victoria (Vicky) Romero, a beloved wife, nutritionist, food and dairy science engineer, and compassionate housewife, passed away on August 27, 2023, in San Antonio, TX, after a courageous 12-year battle with cancer. She was born on June 29, 1963, in Lima, Peru, to Jorge Cecilio Romero and Victoria Sierra. Vicky was known for her selflessness and caring nature throughout her life.

Vicky's thirst for knowledge led her to pursue an impressive education. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Engineering from the Universidad Nacional Agraria, Lima-Peru, and went on to obtain a Masters in Dairy Science from the University of Cantabria, Spain, showcasing her dedication to personal and professional growth. She also took classes in Music Therapy and received a diploma for finishing the courses. Her pursuit of higher education reflected her commitment to honing her skills and helping others. As a nutritionist and food engineer, Vicky worked for the Coca-Cola company in Lima, Peru, and later as a nutritionist at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Vicky’s work was characterized by meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Vicky married Douglas McGregor on October 6, 2006, after meeting him in Dallas, TX in 2005. Vicky and her husband traveled to many places together, including Spain, Portugal, India, Mexico, El Salvador, Peru, and many states in the US. During these travels, she rode elephants in India, climbed to the top of Machu Picchu, flew over the Nazca lines, fished in the Amazon river, motor-boated to the Ballestas Islands, viewed the Holy Grail in Valencia, and snorkeled in Cancun, along with many other adventures. 

Proud of her Peruvian heritage, Vicky sold Peruvian products at the local farmers market until she became ill with cancer. Vicky was a good chess player and not to be taken lightly. She also played the accordion and piano and taught introductory lessons to children. Vicky liked to garden, and she spent time raising her wild plums and herbs. Vicky also helped raise tilapia fish and chickens at home. Her evenings were spent praying and studying her prayer book. A devout catholic, Vicky would only miss a service if she was incapable of travel, which occurred near the end of her life.

Vicky embodied profound generosity and care in every aspect of her life. Known for always putting others first, she embodied the values of selflessness and compassion. She was not materialistic and had a remarkable knack for finding the best deals on groceries and other items. She was a regular customer at the local farmer’s market, known well, and many vendors held back special items just for her. 

Her friends and family remember her as someone who would go above and beyond to help those in need. Her priorities always centered around love for her family and friends rather than material possessions or personal gain. She remained in daily contact with her parents and siblings.

She is survived by her loving husband, Douglas; mother, Victoria; brother Jorge; and sister Ani, and she leaves behind many heartbroken friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.

Vicky's life was a testament to the power of selflessness, love, and compassion. Her memory will always serve as a reminder that our actions, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the lives of others. She will be missed dearly by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Mass will be at 10:00 AM, Saturday, September 9, 2023 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Maple Hill.  Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery in Emmett. There will be a visitation from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Friday, September 8, 2023 at Piper Funeral Home followed by a Rosary at 8:00 PM. For those who wish to honor Victoria's memory, memorial contributions may be made to The Carmelite Nuns, 1250 Carmel Drive, Lafayette, LA 70501 or sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St. Marys, KS 66536.

As we remember Victoria, let us celebrate the extraordinary woman she was and take comfort in knowing that she has left an enduring legacy of kindness and empathy. May her soul find eternal peace as she spends eternity with Jesus, and may her loved ones find strength in the memories they shared with her.