Erich Lee Tinnin DeRomero

Erich Lee Tinnin DeRomero

October 24, 1944 – July 14, 2026

Erich Lee Tinnin DeRomero, 81, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and close friends after a courageous, years-long battle with multiple heart conditions.

Born on October 24, 1944, in Albuquerque, Erich was a lifelong resident who took great pride in his New Mexico roots. He graduated from Highland High School in 1962 before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business from U.N.M. and later a Master of Science in Pharmacology. Throughout his life, Erich embodied hard work, integrity, and service to others.

As a young man, Erich was a cowboy and saddle bronc rider, embracing the western heritage that remained part of who he was throughout his life. During the Vietnam War, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He attained the rank of Specialist Five (SP5) and was stationed in Africa, where he served with the highly classified Army Security Agency.

Following his military service, Erich continued his commitment to protecting others through a distinguished career in law enforcement. He devoted more than two decades as Chief of the New Mexico Rangers. He was also a nationally certified firearms instructor who was passionate about teaching safe and responsible firearms handling to future generations.

Erich also enjoyed a successful career spanning more than 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry, ultimately serving as a Psychiatry Specialty Manager. His professionalism, knowledge, and genuine care for others earned him the respect of colleagues and healthcare professionals throughout his career.

While Erich's accomplishments were many, his greatest joy was found in his family. He was deeply devoted to his beloved wife, Carol Sue DeRomero. Together they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage until Carol's passing in 2024. Whether they were fishing together, country dancing, or simply enjoying time with family, Erich treasured every moment with the love of his life.

He especially loved spending time outdoors with his children and grandchildren, teaching them how to fish, shoot, and safely handle firearms. His patience, wisdom, quiet strength, and unwavering love created memories that will be cherished for generations. More than anything, Erich loved his family wholeheartedly and leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, service, and steadfast devotion.

Erich was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Sue DeRomero; his father, Fidel Romero; and his mother, Mildred Tinnin Romero.

He is survived by his daughter, Kerri Karel; his son, Garrett DeRomero, and daughter-in-law, Jessica DeRomero; his grandchildren, Cory Schmidt, Justin Schmidt, Breeann DeRomero, and Kaiden DeRomero; along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and example.

A Memorial Service celebrating Erich's life will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Service, 7601 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109. A reception will immediately follow the service. Interment with military honors will take place at 1:00 p.m. at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, honoring Erich's lifelong dedication to those who served our nation.

Erich's life was defined by service—to his country, his community, his profession, and above all, his family. His strength, integrity, quiet generosity, and enduring love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.