Dr. John Dromgoole, almost 85, of Concord and Chelmsford, passed away early in the morning on Saturday, March 23, 2024. After a long battle with dementia and heart failure, he died quietly, surrounded by loved ones.
John Dromgoole was born on May 22, 1939, to Mary Heffernan Dromgoole and Walter Dromgoole in Providence, Rhode Island. John graduated from Warwick Vets High School in 1957, received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1962, a Master’s Degree in School Administration from Northeastern University, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Boston College.
In 1970, John met Carol Ann Harley in Quincy. John and Carol went on to have daughters, Jennifer Dromgoole and Sarah Dromgoole of Chelmsford. A former school teacher in Warwick, Rhode Island and Providence, a lobbyist, and a tenured professor, Dr. Dromgoole started his own business helping thousands of students and families with college and private school application, placement, and financial aid. Many of his students fondly called him “Dr. D” or even “Dad.” In Concord, he was a member of the Rotary Club.
John and the family have enjoyed a longtime, special connection with their home in Kennebunkport, Maine, where they made countless treasured memories and meaningful lasting friendships.
His favorite pastime later in life was to watch his granddaughter, Molly Grace Dromgoole of Chelmsford, participate in her many beloved sporting events, especially with the cherished families of Chelmsford Swim and Tennis, who all lit up and lent a hand when Pop Pop arrived at a swim meet. His last days were filled with lots of sunshine and visits with his “framily” in the neighborhood.
John is survived by his wife, Carol Dromgoole, his daughters, Jennifer and Sarah Dromgoole and his granddaughter, Molly Grace Dromgoole. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Daniel Dromgoole. John will be missed by his sisters, Martha Hofford of Atlanta, Georgia, Kate Grimm and her husband Richard of Hingham, and many nieces and nephews. His love knew no bounds.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather for John’s Funeral Mass on Tuesday, April 9 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Bernard’s Church at Holy Family Parish, 12 Monument Square, Concord. Please click here to access the church livestream for those who wish to attend the Mass remotely.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Care Dimensions Hospice, 75 Sylvan Street, Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord. To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence in John’s online guestbook, visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
