Neil was born on December 12, 1945, in Auburn, MA, to Edwin and Grace Carpenter and brother to David, Brian, Donna, and twin brother Bruce. Neil is survived by his daughter, Shay Carpenter, and Granddaughter Margaret Tapman of Lafayette, CO, his loving and dedicated brother Brian Carpenter and wife Lynn Carpenter of Sebastian, FL, sister Donna Jukonski and her husband, Henry Jukonski, sister-in-law Juliet Carpenter of Clinton, WA, and many nieces, nephews, and close friends. 

Neil lived in Auburn until 1957, when he moved with his family to Newington, CT. Neil remained in Newington until his family moved to East Hampton, CT, in 1963. Neil graduated from high school in 1964 and then enlisted in the United States Air Force.

During his time of service to the United States Airforce, Neil was awarded several medals and citations, including acknowledgement for Outstanding Unit, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with One Bronze Service Star. Upon his honorable discharge in 1968, Neil had reached the rank of Sergeant.

Following his service, Neil enrolled in Middlesex Community College, followed by Central Connecticut State University, where he graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. In 976, Neil founded a remodeling business and continued his work in the field of finished carpentry until his retirement in 2008. Upon retirement, Neil relocated to Vero Beach, FL, where he cared for his mother, Grace Carpenter, until she passed away in 2015.

During his time in Connecticut, Neil could be found on his 41-ft sailboat in Old Saybrook, where he lived year-round and enjoyed weekends teaching his daughter to sail. Neil was a staunch supporter of ocean conservation efforts during his time in Connecticut, often volunteering in waterway cleanups and participating in The Cousteau Society.

While living in Vero Beach, FL, Neil reconnected with his love of golf and was an avid golfer for many years, often working small jobs at the Sandridge Golf Club in order to enjoy continuous golf games. Neil also volunteered his time with Vero Beach Veterans, Inc., serving as their treasurer.

Neil was known for his goofy nature and playful sense of humor. He had a love for reading and country-western movies. He was also a master of historical trivia and an avid swing dancer. Neil will be greatly missed by his friends and family. Before his passing, Neil outlined his obituary, signing it: To all I know and have known, goodbye.

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