VANDERGRIFT, Neil

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Wednesday, October 3, 2007 Neil K. Vandegrift passed away peacefully in his home on Sept. 28, 2007, surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Georgia on Sept. 27, 1935, to Merle and Babe Martin. Merle later married Ernie Vandegrift, who adopted Neil at 11 years of age. Neil grew up on a farm where he managed his dad's grocery store. In his early teens, the family moved to Southern California where he lived most of his life. As a young child, Neil had polio on his right leg and when his mother was working, his Aunt Edith, just a couple of years older than him, took excellent care of him. They maintained a close relationship throughout his life. Neil and his brother Ernie were inseparable. They went to school, worked in the store, performed typical house chores and even had fun getting into trouble together. Neil was married three times. His third marriage to Angeles Ramos took place in a boat at Lake Tahoe on his 45th birthday. The bride and groom had met at work and tied the knot after dating for two weeks. Neil enjoyed a simple life of work, family gatherings, going to the movies and always making friends and helping others. Neil also enjoyed working with his hands, particularly making furniture. He built earthquake-proof wooden pieces and was very proud of his work. Neil had a generous heart. He delivered Meals on Wheels to the homebound in Prescott Valley. He was life donor of United Blood Services and was contributor of Feed the Children for over 20 years. Neil had a strong desire to make a difference in people's lives: He began studying various religions at the early age of 14. He followed the teachings of Jesus Christ, the saints, Paramahansa Yogananda, Buddha, Gandhi, Babaji and other religious leaders and masters. A member of the Self- Realization and Fellowship ministries, he was an active participant of The Landmark Education programs. He gave lectures and assisted people healing in mind and body through sessions and exercises. His strong desire to give something to humanity led him to write two books, "Recreating Your Life From the Core of Your Beingness," and "The True Nature of Love." The second book is available at www.authorhouse.com or by writing to Author House, 1663 Liberty Dr., Suite 200, Bloomington, IN 48403. Neil is survived by his beloved daughter, Christena Vandegrift; Brandon Moore; grandson Angel Vandegrift; aunt Edith Owens; brother Ernie Vandegrift II; niece Jill Banic; life long friend Angeles Ramps Harden; and many other relatives. A celebration of Neil's life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007, at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2000 Shepherd's Lane, Prescott, Az, 86301. Reverend Father Jack Wolter will officiate. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to YRMC Hospice, 3262 North Windsong Drive, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 or St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. We acknowledge the compassionate and caring hearts of every Hospice staff and their volunteers. We thank St. Luke's clergy, staff and members for their immeasurable support and gift of love to Neil and family. We appreciate the kindhearted staff of Chino Valley Funeral Home. A man of integrity and strong beliefs, Neil Vandegrift, until we meet again, farewell our friend, you are in our hearts forever. Information provided by survivors. ---------------------- The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Monday, October 8, 2007 Neil Vandergrift, 72, of Prescott Valley, Arizona, born Sept. 27, 1935, in Georgia, Passed away September 28, 2007, in Prescott Valley, Arizona. Services were 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, 2007, at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Prescott. Chino Valley Funeral Home is caring for the family.