Neil Sidney Vroom

Neil Sidney Vroom, 79, of Concord, NC, passed away on December 2, 2024, following a period of declining health related to Alzheimer's. Born on September 19, 1945, in Rochester, New York, to the late Clifford G. and Jeanne Adsit Vroom. 

A proud graduate of Olympia High School class of 1963, Neil continued his education earning his BS from Heidelberg College where he was a member of Nu Sigma Alpha, in 1967. He worked for Marathon Oil Company in Findlay, Ohio before joining the US Army, serving at the Pentagon in Washington, DC from 1968-1970. Neil returned to Marathon in Findlay before relocating and retiring in 2001 from Eastman Kodak Company after 29 years in ISIT. 

As an Eagle Scout himself, Neil served as a Scout Leader for many years helping many others, including his son, achieve the same rank. He realized his dream of flying, earning his private and commercial pilot’s licenses and later on, could be found at his computer working on financial planning. 

Neil is best described by his faith, friends, and his family. 

Neil was actively involved in Greece Baptist Church and was bestowed the honor of Life Deacon. After retiring to Mooresville, NC, he served as treasurer for 8 years at Central United Methodist Church. In 2020 Neil and Sandy moved to Concord, NC to be closer to family and you could find Neil volunteering and worshiping at Westford Methodist Church. 

Neil never met a stranger and was a friend to all. He was active in the Mooresville Chamber of Commerce and was awarded Ambassador of the Year in 2005. A member of the Golden Boys of Lake Norman and the Catawbans, golf was of great enjoyment in both organizations. It was with these groups that Neil and Sandy enjoyed many of their international travels. Journeys to China, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand, Athens, Greece, the Greek Isles, Istanbul, Turkey, Barcelona, Spain, and river cruises to Germany, France, and Portugal. 

While his faith was unwavering, and his friends were abundant, Neil’s greatest joy was his family. He married his college sweetheart Sandy in 1967 and along with their 2 children, the Vrooms enjoyed numerous summers traveling to the Jersey shore, a trip his family had been taking for generations, and numerous trips out West visiting the National Parks. Family gatherings were a top priority and brought him the most pleasure. 

In addition to his wife, Sandra, Neil is survived by his daughter Alicia Carte (Todd), his son Craig Vroom, grandchildren Sydney Carte (Trae Starnes), Hayden Vroom, Camryn Carte, and Rowan Vroom, as well as step-grandchildren Isabella Wray and Aidan Wray. He is also survived by his brother Larry Vroom (Trudy) his sister Sondra Hoyt (Jim), along with several nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends. 

Neil Sidney Vroom was a kind and loving soul who touched the lives of everyone he met with his warmth, generosity, and genuine love for people. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he placed family at the heart of everything he did, always made time to celebrate milestones, share laughter, and create lasting memories. Neil’s compassionate spirit extended far beyond his family; he was a steadfast friend, a supportive mentor, and a dedicated community member. Neil’s life was a testament to selflessness and a heart full of love. His joy for life shone through in his adventures, his passions, and his ability to find happiness in simple pleasures. Neil’s legacy is one of unwavering kindness, a deep love for others, and a life well-lived with purpose and gratitude. 

The family would like to thank all of the friends and family that came to visit and reached out to Neil, especially at Terra Bella. The staff and other residents were quickly impressed with the frequency of visitors and correspondence. One of his everyday visitors was Ollie, Sydney and Trae’s dog. Ollie put smiles on everyone’s faces he saw, and Neil was so proud to show him off as one of his best friends. 

A memorial service in honor of Neil Vroom will be held at Westford Methodist Church on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 1:00pm with a reception immediately following. 

Memorial contributions can be made to Terra Bella, 6200 Roberta Road, Harrisburg, NC 28075. 

Hartsell of Concord is serving the Vroom family.