Samuel Goicoechea

Sam was born in New York, New York to parents; Felipe and Damina Goicoechea. As a teenager and young adult, he was heavily involved in the Boys Club of America. Even though he was accepted to Juilliard School of Music, he chose to go to George Williams College in Chicago. Sam worked in the mid-west for many years, where his children were born, including a year in Madrid, Spain for International Harvester, Inc. In 1982, he moved to Texas where he met his wife, Lydia.

Sam served 28 years in the Air Force, retiring as a Lt. Col from Kelly Air Force Base in 1997. While in the military, he created the policy, rules and regulation regarding sexual harassment that is now used by all military branches. He was also responsible for creating the foundation for a Historical Library for military families at Lackland Air Force Base. In civilian life, Sam's extensive experience in personnel allowed him to successfully transition into Executive recruiting with Management Recruiters International, the largest search firm in the world.

In 2004, he was named Person of the Year, outshining candidates from 1100 other offices worldwide. Sam enjoyed traveling with his wife, loved fishing with his family and friends, and being challenged by a game of golf. However, one of Sam's greatest joys was to help people and giving back.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lydia; son, Michael Goicoechea and wife, Becca; daughter, Suzie Reel and husband, Eric; daughter, Adria Gardner and husband, Phillip; five grandchildren, Cedric, Elic, Mia, Ben, Elijah and one on the way; brothers, Daniel and wife, Debbie; Victor and wife, Vickie; sister, Elsa and husband, Jorge; mother-in-law, Flor Molina; brother-in-laws, Nacho Molina and Raul Molina and wife, Laura; sister-in-law, Hely Molina; as well as several nieces and nephews.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE

WITH MILITARY HONORS

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2010

8:30 A.M.

FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lackland Gateway Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 761422, San Antonio, TX 78245-6422.