George Alfred Goddard
June 5, 1934 — May 16, 2024
New Middletown - George Alfred Goddard, 89, passed away May 16, 2024, in the comfort of his daughter's home, surrounded by generations of his loving family.
George was born June 5, 1934 in Newbury, Berkshire, England and was the son of Edward and Grace (Kite) Goddard. He was raised in England by his Mum & Gran.
George attended Speenhamland Primary School and Shaw House Secondary School. After graduation, he worked as a laborer in the coal mines in Wales and served in the English Army's Royal Artillery from 1953 to 1955. In 1956, he immigrated to the United States and lived in New York City. He continued his studies at Hofstra University and the University of Minnesota. While living in New York City and planning his return to England, he met the love of his life Helen Klein. They were married on May 18, 1963. In 1966, they relocated to New Middletown, Ohio and raised their children. They were blessed with 58 years of marriage until Helen preceded him in death on July 30, 2021.
George spent the majority of his career in customer relations working for Strouss Department Store. Not wanting to sit still, even in retirement, he worked as a part-time custodian for Springfield Local Schools. George was active in his community and was a longtime volunteer fireman for the New Middletown Fire Department and member of Zion Lutheran Church of New Middletown. He gave countless hours of his time helping with the church's various activities, as well as using his handyman skills to help maintain the building.
Some of George's favorite pastimes included camping with family in his beloved Airstream, playing a good game of cards, going to estate auctions, showing his creative side through painting, and going to the Red Hat Society lunches with friends. A dedicated, loving family man, George was present to support his children and grandchildren at every activity, always videotaping them to look back on. George was funny, laid back, strong, reliable, and had a quiet confidence, all of which will be immensely missed by many.
George leaves to carry on his memory, his children, George (Kathy) Goddard of Kansas, Lynn Flaherty of New Middletown, Dawn (John) Walsh of Struthers, and John (Kim) Goddard of Canfield; grandchildren, Joe (Nicole) Wrask, Jenny (Laz) Wrask, Kevin Flaherty, McCartney Walsh, Jacob Walsh, Jayden Goddard, Allie Goddard, and Ben Goddard; great-grandchildren, LJ Lebron and Camille Wrask; and several nieces and nephews who have fond memories of their Uncle George.
In addition to his parents and wife, George was preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Lopez and son-in-law, Kevin Flaherty.
There will be no calling hours. A private gathering will be held for the immediate family on what would have been his 90th birthday.
Memorial tributes may take the form of contributions in George's name to the Zion Lutheran Church, 10857 Main St., New Middletown, OH 44442.
Arrangements are by the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home. Visit www.beckerobits.com to share memories and condolences with the family.
