Romeo Matteri dies at the age of 96

‘Tough-as-nails’ roofer continued working until he was 90 years old.|

Longtime Petaluma resident and Tomales native Romeo Matteri passed away peacefully at his eastside home on January 28, at the age of 96.

Born in Tomales, where his mother operated the William Tell Hotel, he worked as a kid on a hay baler and at the Tomales Cheese Factory. After moving to Petaluma “Rome” worked at the Petaluma Cooperative Creamery before joining the roofing trade and working for Henris Roofing for many years. After he retired, the still fit and tough-as-nails roofer bought a hot-pot and continued doing independent roofing jobs until he was 90 years old.

Very friendly and sociable, he loved dancing to Country and Western music at Petaluma’s live-music nightspots including the Bend, Longhorn Bar and the Rhythm Club. Rome was active until several months ago and could frequently be spotted riding his electric scooter around town. He was married two times.

He is survived by his daughters, Kathy Matteri of Tahoe City, and Anita Gager of Petaluma; siblings Fred Matteri and Babe Bonomi; nieces Bobbi McGaughey and Bobbi Evans, and grand-niece Chrystal Evans, all of Petaluma. He is preceded in death by siblings Dolph, Charlie, Edith, and Anita.

At Rome’s request, no services were held.

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