On Thursday afternoon, the community of Noord, family members, special guests, representatives, and leaders gathered to celebrate the inauguration of a new roundabout, which officially received the name “Rotonde Ovito Tromp,” in honor of a deeply respected figure in the neighborhood.
During the ceremony, members of Ovito Tromp’s family shared words of remembrance. On behalf of the family, his nephew Jourick Blanco highlighted that Ovito Tromp was first and foremost a family man who left a profound mark as an example of respect, discipline, and love. According to Jourick, who currently serves as president of the sports division of Centro di Bario Noord (CBN), the values that Ovito instilled are those that his family continues to uphold to this day.
“Mogichi,” as he was affectionately known, was recognized as a strong person with a big heart, always willing to help and guide others. His passion for sports, particularly baseball, and his dedication to the youth in his community created a lasting impact, inspiring generations both on and off the playing field.
Minister of Infrastructure Rene Herdé emphasized that Ovito Benito Tromp was an example for Aruba, and especially for the district of Noord. He highlighted Tromp’s talents in education, sports, and culture, but even more importantly, his commitment to his family and community.
Prime Minister Mike Eman stressed that Ovito Tromp dedicated his life to serving others. As a teacher and community leader, he actively contributed to social, educational, and sports development, always with a strong sense of responsibility and commitment.
Ovito Benito Tromp (1955–2015) is remembered as a key figure in Noord. As a certified teacher since 1979, he dedicated his career to education and contributed to curriculum development at the Department of Education. As president of Centro di Bario Noord, he led various initiatives focused on community well-being, including the expansion of the daycare center “Chikitin Bin Bin,” the development of a new ballpark, and the creation of the Noord Recreation Park.
In sports, he was a reference figure in local baseball, mentoring young people with discipline and passion. Culturally, he was active as a member of the Santa Anna Choir, a mandolin player, and a participant in the folkloric group “Tipico Noord,” contributing to the preservation of Aruba’s traditions.
For his extraordinary dedication, Ovito Tromp was honored with the title of Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau in 2002.
The desire to honor his legacy through the naming of a roundabout remained alive within the community and his family throughout the years. Today, that aspiration has become reality, reflecting broad recognition of his contributions to Noord and Aruba.
The inauguration forms part of an initiative to recognize important figures within the community and strengthen the sense of identity and history in different neighborhoods across Aruba.
Above all, Ovito Tromp will be remembered as a volunteer at heart: an approachable man, always willing to help, with a deep love for his community. With this roundabout, his legacy continues to live on as a symbol of dedication, perseverance, and pride for Noord and all of Aruba.
