Mr. Charles Edward Van Goey's Obituary
It is with deep and heavy sadness that we announce the death of Charles Edward Van Goey, who passed on March 13, 2016 at Bay Front Medical Center, St Petersburg Florida just a few days before his 88th birthday.
Charles was born on March 15, 1928 and raised in South Bend, Indiana where he lived for 48 years until his love for the water overcame him and he spent the rest of his remaining years in Florida. He was an avid sailor and spent the majority of his free time on the water. In 1946, Charles joined the United States Navy, serving 6 years as a Sea Bee in the South Pacific and on the western sea frontier. When he returned home he worked with General Motors Studebaker Division and later on the Apollo 12 and 13 in California with North American Aviation.
He was very active during his life, belonging to several civic organizations, including the United States Power and Sail Squadron, becoming a Commander in 2011. He later took his master craftsmanship to the water and built his own seaworthy 22 foot sailboat by hand. Eventually, he graduated to a 41 foot sailboat and sailed with friends and family on the open seas. He developed his own company, Van Goey Investment Properties, VIP. He helped those who could not afford a home and elevated their self-worth with patience and sometimes very creative financing.
Charles was married to and shared all his love with Marilyn (Pretty Girl) for over 46 years. He will forever be remembered by his 4 sons and 2 daughters; Charles and wife Lynn, Phillip, and Mark from his first marriage and Daniel Fowler, Linda Jobe and husband Brian, Melody Pippin and husband Thomas; along with his treasured 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; his brother Joseph and sister Cecilia and Bobby Jordan. Preceding him in death are his parents Theophil and Marie, his sister Virginia Griffin and his brother Henry. Charles loved music, dancing, playing the organ, laughing, being with his family and so many friends. He touched the lives of many with his smile and generosity, quick wit and his corny jokes. He will be missed.
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