David "Rick" Ricky Goheen

David Ricky Goheen, known to all as “Rick”, was born in Mullins, South Carolina, on January 17, 1960. Rick spent his early life traveling the world with his loving family, as his father proudly served as a member of the U.S. Air Force, which helped forge his strong character and deep faith. He was predeceased by his parents, David and Vashti (nee Martin) Goheen, and leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his younger brothers, Roger and Rob Goheen.

Rick's life was a testament to his convivial spirit, both personally and professionally. After graduating high school in 1978, Rick enrolled in a technical school in Dallas, TX to pursue a career in information technology. He became a father to Ryan Goheen in 1990, and moved with his family to Lakeland, FL where he had his second child, Samantha Goheen, in 1996. Rick’s life was further enriched by his loving marriage to Susan (nee Hoover) in 2008, becoming a devoted stepfather to Lindsay, Amanda, and Rachel White, and eventually a grandfather to his step-granddaughter, Lucy in 2020.

Rick served as a Network Analyst with Polk County's I.T. department for nearly 25 years, where his expertise and dedication proved invaluable. His colleagues knew him as a man of integrity, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the best for the team and the community he served. Rick's retirement was a recent milestone, and he intended to devote more time to his passions, his family, and his garden – a reflection of his continuous journey of growth and connection.

A lover of nature and science, Rick found solace and connection in gardening and maintaining his yard, a passion he inherited from his late father, David. His garden was not just a place of beauty, but a sanctuary where he felt closest to his roots. He was always fascinated by space and the cosmos, evidenced by his affection for science fiction and enduring interest in the U.S. space program.

A man of unwavering faith, Rick was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Bartow where he dedicated much of his time and enjoyed performing in their church choir. His spiritual journey was a testament to his belief in compassion and community, touching the lives of many through his kind spirit and calming energy.

Rick's warm smile and calming presence were a comfort to all who knew him. He navigated life's challenges with grace, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. His kindness was not just an act but a way of being, deeply ingrained in his character.

Rick's legacy is not merely in the life he lived but in the countless lives he enriched. And it will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. As we bid farewell, we find solace in knowing that his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his gentle soul.

A visitation for Rick will be held Monday, March 25, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home, 2198 K Ville Ave, Auburndale, Florida 33823, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM.

Rick will be laid to rest in Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens, 2198 K-Ville Avenue, Auburndale, FL 33823.