Thursday, October 1, 2026
In Loving Memory of Dr. Romeo Bachand
Beloved Leader and Champion for a Better World
Born in Massachusetts | Texan by Heart
It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we announce the passing of Dr. Romeo Bachand May 27, 2025. He was a brilliant, humble, and compassionate man whose life was defined by service, purpose and love. His journey touched countless lives across the globe, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, leadership and hope.
He is survived by his sister, loving daughters, Tonya and Trista, stepson Mark Parthie, and his cherished grandchildren, each a source of immense pride and joy.
Born July 11, 1937, Dr. Romeo lived an extraordinary life, accomplished, purposeful, and centered on uplifting others. He wore many hats: father, husband, grandfather, Air Force surgeon, corporate executive, entrepreneur, dear friend, mentor, philanthropist, adventurous world explorer and visionary. His time as a military doctor ignited a lifelong passion for exploring the world, embracing diverse cultures, and helping those in need. That spirit took him on medical missions across Africa and Latin America, where he brought healing, hope and humanity wherever he went.
Though he was born in Massachusetts, Dr. Romeo called Texas home, especially Granbury, where he became a beloved local doctor and pillar of the community. Even in what was meant to be his “retirement,” he continued to serve. He helped rebuild and expand Ruth’s Place, a medical clinic dedicated to serving the most vulnerable. His tireless energy and leadership transformed it into a lasting beacon of care and compassion.
As Co-Founder of Aerie Africa, Dr. Romeo helped create a loving, empowering home for orphaned and vulnerable children in Soddo, Ethiopia. What began as a dream blossomed into a sanctuary for more than 70 children, each raised with dignity, love and opportunity. His belief in the power of education and community uplift continues through the lives and futures of the young leaders nurtured there.
To know Dr. Romeo was to witness a noble spirit, always up for doing something fun, boundless in energy, endlessly generous, and deeply humble. He led with heart, not ego, and made everyone around him feel heard, seen, and valued. Being a good person came naturally to him, no fuss, no spotlight, just quiet, consistent, unwavering integrity. An absolutely rare and unique GEM of a human being.
He embraced life with an adventurous spirit. A lifelong learner, Dr. Romeo remained curious, kind, and humble to the very end, always striving to leave something better behind. Despite his many degrees, global travels, and accolades, he never stopped growing. His curiosity was infectious, his intellect expansive, and his commitment to justice and compassion unwavering. He viewed education, leadership, and philanthropy not as accomplishments, but as responsibilities essential to living a meaningful life.
Whether mentoring a young leader, being a loyal friend, championing a cause, or even modeling in the Handsome Hunks fundraiser for Ruth’s Place, Dr. Romeo brought joy, thoughtfulness, and humility to everything he did. He lived his values daily, with conviction and joy.
Though his passing leaves a void the world cannot fill, his light lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, his family, friends, colleagues and the many communities he inspired and uplifted.
Dr. Romeo, we know you are rejoicing now with your beloved Judy. Keep shining your light upon us. This world was simply too small for your adventurous, generous soul.
Rest in eternal peace, Dr. Roe.
Your legacy lives on in every act of kindness, in every life you touched around the world.
Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 6, 2025, at Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury.
Funeral services: 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the First Christian Church in Granbury. Burial with military honors will follow at Holly Hills Memorial Park in Granbury.
