Richard A. Goral

Richard Anthony Goral, of Barnstable, passed away on January 17, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family. Predeceased by his parents Anthony S. and Mary (Skrok) Goral, he is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Patricia (St. Amand) Goral, daughters Kristin Merck and husband Christopher, Kimberly Stevenson and husband Warren, grandchildren Braden and Autumn Merck, sisters Dottie Malec and husband Jim, Beth Bechard and husband Dan, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Born in Holyoke, MA on March 28, 1946, Rich studied business and graduated from Western New England College in 1970. Following his father’s footsteps, he worked for Texaco Inc. from 1970-1982, later formed his own business in 1983, and was the owner/operator of North Street Texaco in Hyannis from 1990-2002. Most recently he found his calling as a Teacher’s Aide in the Auto Technologies division of Cape Cod Regional Technical High School in Harwich where he was passionate about working with the students, training the next generation of automotive professionals.

Rich had many life interests. He was an avid fan of history, deer hunting, fishing, and the Red Sox. He was also supportive of the Cape Cod Baseball League and housed players from the Hyannis Mets with his wife Pat for many years. Among his biggest passions was his love of good food and drink. He took great pleasure cooking for his friends and family and his culinary creations were greatly enjoyed by all.

Rich’s daughters and grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was very engaged in their hobbies including volunteering with the Barnstable High School Band Boosters, passing on his love of cooking and handiwork, and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday, January 23, 2014 at Our Lady of Victory Church (230 S Main St. Centerville) at 11am. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday January 22, 2014 from 4-7pm at Doane, Beal and Ames Funeral Home (160 West Main St. Hyannis). For directions and online condolences, visit www.doanebealames.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rich’s name to help fund the Auto Technologies Division for tools and scholarships. Checks can be made out to Cape Cod Regional Technical High School (CCRTHS), with his name in the memo (351 Pleasant Lake Ave. Harwich MA, 02645).