John Goatcher

John Odie Goatcher passed away on February 8th, 2022, at his home in Grand Terrace, California. He was born in Mountain Home, Arkansas on November 3rd, 1928 to his late parents, John Odie, Sr. and Kate Wolf Goatcher.

John was proceeded in death by his loving wife, Helen Louise and is survived by his two sons, John (Maria Aurora) and Gregory (D'Anne); Grandchildren, Matthew (Christina), Denisse (Roberto), Roxana (Chris), Brandee (Christian) and Jessica (Mark); Grandchildren, Andrija, Penelope, Violet and Roberto.

John grew up in Aurora, Colorado and graduated from William Smith High School in 1946 where he excelled in football, basketball and track. Upon graduation, John joined the U.S. Navy and became Petty Officer First Class-Electrician’s Mate serving on the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Princeton. He loved being in the Navy. He was proud to have served his country. He often said, "Joining the Navy was the best thing I ever did."

On April 23rd, 1949, John married the love of his life, Helen Louise Donofrio. They were married for over 65 years. Later in 1949, he was honorably discharged from the Navy. John went on to become the chief engineer at Wonder Bread Bakery in Waterloo, Iowa and Denver, Colorado where he retired after 44 years of service.

Before and after retirement, John immensely enjoyed his passion of hunting and fishing. He was known for his legendary marksmanship. He also reveled in traveling the world with his wife, Helen, on ship cruises. He had a unique, witty sense of humor, which along with his gift of storytelling entertained and enthralled family members, especially the grandchildren. He also had an amazing, creative, inventive mind and could fix almost anything.

Above all, his biggest goal and accomplishment in life was to be the best family man, husband and father he could be to take care of his beloved wife and to raise his sons in the right way with strong, God-fearing values. He was always willing to give his sons invaluable advice from his many life experiences to help them achieve their goals and dreams in life. His legacy for sure will live on in generations to come. God rest the soul of John Odie Goatcher.