Remembering Ron Neal

July, 28, 2023 – We are saddened to report that Ron passed away over the summer of 2023.  He was a lovely man and we are honored to have him finish his distinguished career with Aztech Geothermal.  Below is his short biosketch from our website, followed by his obituary with reflections on his life. 

Ron Neal, AI has over 40 years of HVAC experience, with a concentration in the geothermal field for both residential and commercial systems.  Over his long career he has been a technician, designer, project manager, sales manager and even worked directly for the a major geothermal heat pump manufacturer, WaterFurnace International. When Ron and his wife moved to Upstate New York recently Aztech was lucky enough to grab some of his time and attention to maintain quality design and installations as we grow. Ron has extensive geothermal experience including being an IGSHPA Accredited Installer (AI).  

Obituary:

Ronald Edwin (Ronnie) Neal, 82, died peacefully July 28th, 2023, at his home in Saratoga Springs, NY following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones in the days leading up to his death.

Ron was born the youngest of three children to Edwin Neal and Hildreth (Jorden) Cockley, previously Hildreth Neal in Sanford, IN on October 16th, 1940. Ron graduated Columbus High school, class of 1958. He was committed to the environment from 60 years of heating and cooling with his father then advancing into a lifelong passion of geothermal heating and cooling; indeed a mentor to so many.

Ron was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia “Pat” (Mayfield) Neal; Father, Edwin Neal; mother, Hildreth (Jorden) Cockley; brother, Jimmie Earl “Jim” Neal; and half-brother Philip Neal. He is survived by his wife, Joan Tepper-Neal; sister, Luauna Brougher; sons, Ronald Scott, Christopher Earl and his wife, Kristian Neal; stepson, Jason and wife, Tamara Tepper and stepson, Jonathan and wife Edra Tepper. Ron had 9 grandchildren, Jackson, Patrick, Annie, and Carly Neal, Hanna, Isla, Madden, Mason, and William Tepper.

Ron’s hobbies were his love of sharing slight-of-hand magic tricks to his grandchildren, friends, and any bar where we sat and socialized! He even shared his magic tricks with children in other countries. Ron was an artist and would indulge in copper sculptures. He made these sculptures from scraps in his own home and would give them to his family and friends.

Ron was the epitome of a humble gentleman. He loved and mentored  many business associates, along with family and friends. He was one of a kind and overall a gentle soul. Joan, his wife and partner of 30 years will endure his love and presence always…