Mahase Balkissoon Gocool

Mahase B. Gocool

March 6, 1945 – April 8, 2026

Mahase Gocool was a treasured husband, caring father, cherished grandfather, loyal brother, dedicated pastor, and man of faith whose gentle heart and selfless nature brought light to all who knew him. His life radiated service, integrity, and love for others.

Born on a family farm in Trinidad, Mahase was raised alongside nine siblings. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and perseverance. While all the children contributed to farm life, Mahase was entrusted with selling the family’s produce at local markets—a role that reflected his early independence, confidence, and deep sense of responsibility in helping support his family.

Family connection was everything to Mahase. In his twenties, he courageously decided to move to the United States to support his brother and further his education. Mahase began working at Thorek Hospital in Chicago where he met Anuree and the two worked side by side caring for patients. What began as a simple connection quickly blossomed into a beautiful life together. They became parents to three children and were blessed with 55 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, faith, and shared purpose.

Mahase established innovative approaches that shaped his impressive health care career rising from respiratory therapist to executive director overseeing multiple departments at Advocate Health. His passion and drive set him apart. Colleagues admired him not only for his professional mastery, but for his compassionate nature and commitment to others’ success. He recognized the importance of preparing students to lead the next generation.

Mahase embraced early morning prayer, anchoring his life upon the foundation of Jesus Christ, his Lord. He openly shared his faith, believed in the power of prayer, and lived his faith through action. After retiring, he continued his educational journey studying theology. He was actively involved in ministry and eventually ordained as a pastor. He consistently sought to emulate God’s word—offering encouragement, love, guidance, and practical support to those around him. Whether through ministry, mentorship, or quiet acts of generosity, Mahase used his time and resources to empower others.

Mahase is deeply cherished by his beloved wife Anuree, his daughter Michelle and her husband Dale Hallman, his son Michael Gocool and his wife Carla, his daughter Jennifer and her husband James Hamilton.

He was affectionately called Papa by his five grandchildren— Reese, Jonah, and Quinn Hamilton, Levi Gocool, and Henry Hallman—who brought him immense joy. He cherished time spent surrounded by their laughter and youthful energy. He treasured every moment with them, whether playing games of checkers (which he never allowed them to win), to hide and seek, or sharing quiet movie nights. Time with his grandchildren was among his greatest blessings and always brought a smile to his face.

Those close to Mahase will remember his lovely handwritten cards, letters, storytelling with his brothers and sisters, his rich, joyful laugh that filled the room and reflected the warmth of his heart, his unmistakable sweet tooth, and his love for classic western movies. He enjoyed praying with family, discussing politics, sports, innovative careers, his love for God’s word. He stayed curious, engaged, and eager to learn.

Above all, Mahase will be remembered for his love for Jesus Christ, devotion to family, and faithful presence with family, friends, and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the example he set through love, service, and faith.

A celebration of Mahase’s life will be held on:

Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00pm

Grace Fellowship Center

625 E. Dundee Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60004

Family and friends are invited to bring photos and share memories as we unite to honor, reflect upon, and celebrate a life that touched us all so deeply.

Papa, we love you and miss you profoundly🕊️

The Gocool, Hallman, and Hamilton Family