Obituary of Robert Goddard

Robert Charles Goddard lived with an unwavering love of life. With deep regret and profound sadness, his family announces his peaceful passing on Friday, May 23rd, at the age of 90, surrounded by his loved ones. 

Bob was a devoted husband to Dianne (O’Brien), his beloved wife of 66 years. He was an adoring father to his daughters Mary, Janet (Don) and Sue (Roy) and a proud grandfather to Logan and Trent. Predeceased by his parents Alexander and Florence, siblings Fraser, Gordon and Florence. 

Bob was born in Toronto and grew up in the High Park area, settling in Oshawa after getting married in 1958. He was also a lifelong cottage resident of Fenelon Falls.  

As a respected former teacher, Bob made a lasting impact on countless students he taught in schools across the Oshawa and Whitby areas. With his natural athletic ability, he excelled in basketball and curling and was a decades long member of the Sturgeon Point Golf Club. An accomplished student himself, Bob attended Western, McMaster and Niagara universities and held a master’s degree. 

The family cottage was his favourite place to be. He was happiest spending time there with his family and entertaining his many friends, hosting a friendly but competitive game of cards, sharing a four o’clock social drink, watching the magnificent sunsets or dancing in the living room with his wife. He lived life to the fullest and gave all who loved him unforgettable memories.  

To quote his favourite song, La Mar, Beyond the Sea: 

Somewhere beyond the sea, she's there watching for me 
If I could fly like birds on high, then straight to her arms 
I'd go sailing 
 
It's far beyond the stars, it's near beyond the moon 
I know beyond a doubt, my heart will lead me there soon 
 
Happy we'll be beyond the sea 
And never again I'll go sailing 
 

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Bob’s remarkable life will be held on a future date. For those who wish to make a donation to honour Bob’s memory, please consider the Canadian Lung Association. 

A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops - Henry Adams