

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. William Goldbeck and Dagmar K. Goldbeck; his brothers, Paul and Phil Goldbeck; and his sisters, Dorcas and Grace Goldbeck.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Linda Gaines Goldbeck; his children, Mike Goldbeck (Sonia) and Cheryl Dyckowski (Jeff); his granddaughter, Lindsay Goldbeck Kesler (Zak); his great-grandchildren, Goldie Quinn Kesler and McClain "Mac" Everett Kesler; and his sisters, Ruth Swingle and Mary Blayney.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He spent his childhood in Hastings, Nebraska, before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1960 aboard the USS Roosevelt. Following his military service, Jim moved to Georgia with his fellow sailor and friend from Pine Log, Max Roberts. It was there that he met the love of his life, Linda, beginning a marriage that would span more than six decades.
A faithful member of Pine Log United Methodist Church, Jim served as a lay delegate for charge conferences for more than 20 years. He dedicated over 30 years of service to Lockheed Martin, where he held a variety of roles throughout his career.
Jim enjoyed a life filled with simple pleasures and meaningful connections. He loved motorcycles, attending car races, tending to his garden, and visiting local markets for fresh vegetables. Known for his quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor, Jim never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making people laugh. You never quite knew what he was going to say next, but you could always count on him to brighten the room and leave others smiling. His genuine love for people, storytelling, and ability to connect with others made him a friend to many. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, friends, and church community, leaving behind countless memories that will continue to bring joy to those who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Pine Log United Methodist Church with Rev. James Hannah officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the church prior to the service.
Please visit www.owenfunerals.com to leave online condolences for the family.
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