A GoFundMe has been set up to support the family of a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy with the Santa Clarita Valley Station who died of COVID-19 over the weekend.

Deputy Pedro “Pete” Romo was “a beloved part of the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station” since he first was assigned to the area in 2004, at the time with only nine years with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) under his belt, according to LASD officials.

A 25-year veteran of the LASD, Romo served as School Resource Officer (SRO) for Valencia High School for 13 years, providing protection and mentorship, and allowing positive interaction between students and law enforcement, officials said.

“Deputy Romo was a great partner, family man and friend. He always managed to bring spirit to the station with a smile and positive attitude, as well as took pride in providing security to students,” read a Monday morning social media post from the SCV Sheriff’s Station. “Aside from being a school resource officer, Deputy Romo also assisted with our station’s off-road team.”

After contracting COVID-19 in December of 2020, Romo was hospitalized in mid-January, until he ultimately passed away from coronavirus-related complications on Sunday, February 14th, 2021.

On Valentine’s Day, Romo left behind his wife Natalie, as well as their three children, Marko, Sean, and Natalia, who are “in shock and heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of their loving husband and father,” officials said.

Our department is grieving the loss of another #LASD deputy, who served our communities for 25 years. Today we ask that you keep Deputy Pedro Romo, and his entire family in your prayers. https://t.co/DUwBxjsQZ7

— Alex Villanueva (@LACoSheriff_33) February 15, 2021

“He will be greatly missed, and always remembered. We ask that you keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Thank you sir for your service, we got it from here,” wrote an SCV Station official.

As of Monday afternoon, the GoFundMe has raised $15,028 of the $25,000 goal, with the funds meant to support Romo’s family during their time of need, according to organizers.

To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.

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