NASHVILLE - Age 92, September 20, 2018, died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family. Preceded in death by her parents, Eduard and Wilma, and younger brother, Karl. She is also preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Richard K. Goetz.
Mrs.Goetz was a devoted mother, grandmother (Oma) to all the younger family members. She was an avid storyteller, frequently relaying stories of childhood, family history, and memories of her beloved birthplace, Salzburg, Austria. In her younger years, she enjoyed her time outdoors, particularly hiking and skiing. She and her family emigrated to the United States in the 1950's, and in the early 60's the family moved to Nashville and it became their permanent home.
Mrs. Goetz leaves behind her four loving children, Renate (Rick) Young, of Marietta Georgia, John Goetz, and companion, Debbie, Thomas Goetz, and companion, Angela, and Elizabeth (Mike) Morris, of Springfield. Mrs. Goetz is also survived by five (5) grandchildren (and spouses), Sean Young, Justin (Cecy) Young, Andrea (Paul) Lakin of Georgia, Janet (John) Dempsey, Samuel Morris of Springfield, Tennessee. Mrs. Goetz is also survived by five (5) great-grandchildren, Dorian and Gabi Valdes, Jack and Isabelle Dempsey and Alina Lakin.
Mrs. Goetz was a life-long learner and frequently read books on philosophy, the arts and religion. She enjoyed cooking and creating her own recipes when all ingredients weren't readily available. Mrs. was proficient in three languages (German, French, English). She could also quote Latin and Greek phrases on demand or in the midst of conversation. She was known to share her insights on the events of the world and its impact in history. She was a champion for the underserved and frequently tried to encourage others to gain a different perspective than the popular trend.
Mrs.Goetz was very proud to share her family history, but most grateful to relay that she grew up just minutes away from the town where the world famous Christmas carol, "Silent Night" was born. Many family Christmas traditions were centered around this carol and the customs which celebrated the arrival of the "Christkind" (Christ Child) at Christmas.
Mrs.Goetz had a tremendous love for children, and delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a proponent of the Montessori method and often provided the rationale for child centered learning as her children and grandchildren were parenting. Mrs. Goetz encouraged her children and grandchildren to express themselves through the arts and to always keep music as a compass in their expression.
In her final months, Mrs. Goetz was able to spend time with all of the family, providing advice and wisdom (specific to each) for the years ahead. Primarily, she encouraged all to look to heaven for guidance and direction and to walk humbly with gratitude for all the blessings the Good Lord has provided us in this life.
Visitation is scheduled for Sunday from 4:00p.m. - 7:00p.m at Marshall- Donnelly-Combs, with the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.
Funeral Mass is on Monday, 10:00 a.m., Christ the King Catholic Church, with Rev. Mark Beckman officiating. Interment to follow in Woodlawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (800-822-6344) or Catholic Charities of Tennessee, 2806 McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 352-3087
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