Tony M. Romero, 30, of Warren, IL passed away on November 5, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born on April 21, 1995, in Freeport, IL to Rhonda Bottcher. He married his best friend and high school sweet heart, Sydney Groen, on August 13, 2021, at Apple River Canyon State Park.

Tony graduated from Forreston High School in 2013 where he participated in weightlifting, football, & track. He found his passion at an early age which led him to attend Illinois State University where he graduated in 2017 with a major in kinesiology. Following his time at ISU, he became a certified EMT and volunteered with Warren Ambulance. This led him to attending Highland Community College and receiving his nursing degree in 2023. From there, he landed his dream job, at Warren School District, as a nurse and multi-sport coach. These included junior high football, high school track, middle school baseball & softball. His passion extended beyond coaching. He found great purpose in helping others through personal training, fitness classes, and nursing. Tony enjoyed spending time with his family, golfing, walking his dogs, and watching movies.

Tony is survived by his wife - Sydney of Warren; fur babies Smokey and Duke; parents- Rhonda (Donnie) Bottcher of Marengo, IL and Jim (Theresa) Downing of Forreston, IL; brothers- Felix (Melina) Romero of Belvidere, IL and Aidyn Bottcher of Marengo, IL; honorary brother/cousin - Cody (Gabrielle) Whitehead of Forreston, IL; nieces and nephews- Ellie, Mia, Melanie and Emmett Romero and Parker Whitehead; grandparents- Wanda, Tim, Gary and Donna; and aunts (Jenny & Misty) and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his sister Cesilia Romero and grandfather Karl Downing.

A visitation will be held from 4:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Warren High School Gymnasium.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the Warren High School Gymnasium.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established in his name.