What Makes Arnold Romberg Tick

Arnold and Suzy Romberg, who acquired La Grange’s historic Kruschel House in 1979, saw past the structure’s peeling wallpaper, outdated plumbing and antiquated wiring. The couple admired the large, airy rooms and the artistry of the longleaf pine woodwork that dated back to the home’s construction in 1908. They appreciated the house’s partial basement, as well as the elevator that proved to be a Godsend many years later when Suzy’s health declined. Photo by Elaine Thomas

Arnold and Suzy chose to retire in La Grange when they decided that the Kruschel House would be their perfect retirement home. Years later, however, Arnold admits they got lucky. Had they known what wonderful people live in La Grange, they’d have chosen the city and been just as happy in a much less impressive residence.

When Arnold worked on Shell Development Co.’s state-of-the-art computer in 1960, it had a 1,000-word memory and needed a good deal of office space.

A self-proclaimed train nut, Arnold looks forward to Santa’s annual December arrival aboard a full-size Union Pacific locomotive at the La Grange Railroad Depot Museum. Inside, Santa meets with local boys and girls.

In a Romberg family picture taken on Dec. 25, 1982, are: (back row, left to right: Hugh Lawrence, Arnold and John Marshall and front row, left to right: Katherine King, Alice Elizabeth, Laura Todd and Suzy. Tragically, Laura was killed in a car accident while the family was living in Dallas.

Popping up through a bathroom floor with a trowel in his hand, Arnold had a good-natured smile. Slowly but surely, the Kruschel House was updated with most of the work done by the Rombergs.

Frederick Arnold Romberg and Sylvia Sue Strickland were married on Feb. 11, 1956, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Houston.

Restoration of the Romberg’s new old home was ongoing for many years. Both Arnold and Suzy, who immensely enjoyed that journey, made time to travel and volunteer in their new hometown.

Arnold also is an old car enthusiast. Here, he and Suzy give Santa a ride in one of his three Pierce-Arrow Motor Cars that date back to the early years of the 20th century.

Arnold pays tribute to his late wife, Suzy, who died Sept. 14, 2021, by saying she led a long and happy life, contributing much to the happiness of those around her. He misses her terribly. Suzy and Arnold are pictured during their college days while they were dating.

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What Makes Arnold Romberg Tick