Gary Carlton Goetz

Gary Carlton Goetz, 87, of Bergen NY/Sebastian FL, passed away peacefully on Friday January 24, 2025.

Gary was born April 30,1937 in Alden, NY, son of the late Carleton Goetz and Arletta (Heidenreich) Goetz. Gary graduated from Alexandar Central School, many certificates from Buffalo State School of Technology and married his high school sweetheart Shirley in May of 1959.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Shirley (Wight) Goetz. Children, James Gary Goetz (Tammy Crosier) of Palm Bay FL and son in law Terry Strobel of Bergen NY.

He was predeceased in death by his daughter Teresa (Goetz) Strobel of Bergen.

Grandchildren, Michael Johnson, Matthew (Ambre) Goetz, Amy (Tim) Burt, Andrew (Rachel) Goetz, Joshua (Amanda) Goetz. Great Grandchildren, Raistlin Johnson, Lydia Goetz, Rhonin Johnson, Arletta Rosado, Travis Goetz, Maggie Goetz, Mollie Goetz, Kairi Burt, Marlie Goetz & Mark Burt. Sister Marilyn (Gary) Hardy and many nieces and nephews.

Gary worked in Electrical maintenance most of his career at Bausch and Lomb and spent the latter years in management role. Gary was always thirsting for knowledge and was always looking to learn new things. Gary built his familes first home in 1962 in Bergen, NY, and later a retirement home in Rushford Lake. After his children were raised Gary helped both build homes for their growing families, giving up many hours after work and on weekends. 

Gary was lighthearted, witty, compassionate and caring, always looking for the good in people. Gary always enjoyed chatting and discussing opinions with everyone. Gary enjoyed telling people about his strong German heritage. During his retirement he enjoyed boating, taking cruises, photography and traveling. Though the gift of speaking was taken away from him in the last few months you could still see a smile on his face when dessert came out.

A memorial service will be held at Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care 950 Malabar RD SE Palm Bay Florida 32907 on March 9,2025 from 1-4 pm. Internment in Attica Forest Lawn Cemetery to be on a later date. Donations may be directed to William Childs Hospice House, 381 Medplex Pkwy, Palm Bay, FL 32907.