Biography

Vroom – Richard Alan Vroom passed away on Friday March 10, 2023 in Halifax, Nova Scotia at the age of 79 years. A native Montrealer, Richard was extremely proud of his Canadian heritage. At a young age, he developed a passion for photography and graduated from the University of New Brunswick in Fine Arts. Richard’s love of people and places began early in his career as he traveled all over the world, writing newspaper articles and photographing the beauty of the people and landscapes he visited. Over his lifetime, Richard avidly photographed in 56 countries. The beauty of his own country always brought Richard home. His devotion to photography led him to work with the National Film Board and Readers’ Digest in Canada, contributing to major exhibitions and books including “Explore Canada”, “Canada”, and “Between Friends” - a book to commemorate the American Bicentenary. Richard’s pride in his Vroom family heritage led him to research and produce the books “Cabinetmakers of the Eastern Seaboard” and “New Brunswick, A Victorian portrait”, a compilation of early photography of New Brunswick. In 1978, Richard headed the photography section of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Ottawa. There, he photographed Heads of State and Royalty including Prince Charles, Lady Diana and Queen Elizabeth’s visits to Canada. He coordinated photographers and produced exhibitions of photography on Canada for embassies around the world. Over 60,000 of Richard’s images are currently in the National Archives of Canada. Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to Toronto in 1984 to take over Miller Services Limited, one of Canada’s largest stock photo agencies. Within 3 years, it tripled in sales with 230 photographers contributing. He later founded Canadian Artists Syndicate, working exclusively to promote Canadian cartoonists and columnists. Richard lived a rich and full life with many interests and hobbies. He was an avid sailor and captain, racing sailboats on Lake Ontario. He was often seen with his basset hounds, Freddie and Jensen. Richard was also passionate about fine furniture, fountain pens, antique watches and art. In 2003, he moved to Nova Scotia, where he spent countless hours exploring and photographing the natural beauty of the region. He enjoyed cooking and entertaining, frequently hosting guests from all over the world. Richard is survived by his partner Diane, daughter Mari and her husband Brad, daughter Mia, and his grandchildren Ella, Aime and Tenley. He will be deeply missed by his many friends and family. Richard loved meeting people and sharing the beauty of his country with them. He had a great appreciation for the beauty in everyday life and his big smile, mischievous spark, hearty laugh and generous spirit will not be forgotten. A Celebration of Life will be held at Oakridge Memorial Gardens in Middle Sackville, Nova Scotia at a later date.