George Goforth
East Alton |
George (Bud) Marion Goforth, 82, went peacefully home to the Lord at 12:35 PM October 25, 2014 at St. Anthony’s Hospital.
He was born in East Alton, IL on October 17,1932 the son of Eathel (Wilder) and George Q. Goforth. He graduated from Wood River High School in 1950. He was employed by Olin Corporation over 40 years retiring in 1995.
He married his beloved ‘bride’ Charlotte Pearl (Piggott) on January 22, 1954 and together they enjoyed 60 wonderful years. He was gregarious, outgoing and usually the life of the party. Family members were amazed at his knack of encountering someone he knew nearly everywhere he traveled in the US. He loved to laugh and the entire theatre knew when he was enjoying the movie. His love of movies led to his spending many hours recording, purchasing and cataloging his extensive movie collection of several thousand.
He had a love of history especially military history and spent many hours reading military history books and magazines. Many military history videos are also represented in his collection.
Along with his wife, he spent many active years as a member of the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts attending Houseparties (conventions), collecting and building dollhouse miniatures.
George especially enjoyed time playing cards and games during family gatherings. Immediate and extended family played a large role in his life. He often stated he was born to be a grandpa. He will be greatly missed by his family.
George was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather Lloyd Wiser and stepmother Ethel Goforth; and brothers Bob and Floyd Goforth. He is survived by his wife, daughter Robyn (Bob) Brooks of Seatac, WA, son Mark Goforth of Alton, IL, son Douglas (Joan) Goforth of Issaquah, WA; brother David Randall (Carol) Wiser of Manassas, VA; step-brother Rev. Frank (Donna) Sparks of Rosewood Heights, IL; grandchildren Clea (Mike) Conners of Tetonia, ID, Christopher Brooks of Seatac, WA, Sean Brooks of Seatac, WA and Alicia (Jason) Thomas of Maple Valley, WA; great-grandchildren Elora, Cassidy and Faye Conners, and Lucy and Lola Thomas; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, October 30, 2014 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Reverend Frank Sparks will officiate. Per family request his body will be cremated with interment at 2:30 p.m. Friday, October 31, 2014 at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto with a New Orleans style sendoff.
Memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.
Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
Gent Funeral Home
