J.R. Goff

J.R. Goff, 91, of Jefferson City, passed away Monday, March 20, 2017 at Lakeside Meadows, Osage Beach, Missouri, surrounded by his family. He was born in Ironton, Missouri, the son of the late Gilbert and Ethel (Hansek) Goff. He was united in marriage to Geraldine Ann Burton on October 6, 1956. She survives at the home. J.R. served in the United States Navy during World War II on the USS California Battle Ship. He was also the Lightweight Boxing Champ for his Navy crew. After the War, he was employed with United States Steel Corporation in St. Louis as a Superintendent for 30 years before retiring. After he retired he decided to buy a farm in Belle, Missouri and raise feeder pigs. But after a few years, he then decided to go to work as a shop steward with the Missouri Department of Corrections, and also retired after 10 years. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 2693 and the VFW Post 1003. J.R. was the Number 1 loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan. His true passion was bass fishing. He also took time to share his talent of fishing with family and friends. When his children were younger, he introduced his love for motorcycles, and motocross racing. He and his wife loved to travel everywhere on their Honda Gold Wing and Harley Davison motorcycles. J.R. enjoyed helping anyone he could, especially his elderly friends. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. Along with his wife Gerry, he is survived by five children: Carmen Goff, Diana (Goff) Sadler (Steve) of Chattanooga, Tenn., Leroy Goff (Judy) of Fenton, Dale Goff (Carman) of Rolla, Debbie (Goff) Abel (Shannon) of Lake Ozark and Steve Goff (Bridget) of Jefferson City; seven grandchildren: Jill (Goff) Mester (Derek), Damon Goff (Mandy), Taylor Goff (Brook), Devin Abel (Brittanie), Dane Goff (Chelsea), Lindsey (Goff) Parker (Clayton), Lisa Goff, and Barbara (Goff) Young (Mike); and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one grandson: Dustin Lee Abel; one sister, Daisy Lou (Goff) Nelson; and one brother, Gilbert Goff. Friends will be received from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 24, 2017 at the Houser-Millard Funeral Home. Funeral Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Tim Cook officiating. J.R. will be lead to his resting place at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens by the Patriot Guard. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Family's Choice. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109. Condolences may be left for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.