Gary Goodstal

Gary Goodstal, a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his residence in Saugerties, NY, on June 18, 2025, at the age of 87. The son of Harry and Marian Mills Goodstal he was born on March 14, 1938, in Towanda, PA, Gary was a man whose life was marked by dedication, kindness, and a spirit of adventure.

His path in life was shared with his devoted wife of 64 years, Joanne Goodstal. Gary was a proud father to Scott (Melanie) Goodstal of New Orleans, James (Adrian) Goodstal of Grand Rapids, and Valerie (Jack) Crilly of E. Meredith. Gary's joy was multiplied by his six grandchildren, Jennifer (John) Mikesh, Ann Marie (Dan) Sylvester, Lance Sylvester, Drew Sylvester, Annabel Goodstal, and Beatrice Goodstal, as well as his five great-grandchildren and seven nieces and nephews, who will carry forward his love and lessons. He was predeceased by his brothers, Lawrence and Dale Goodstal, and his sister, Judith Lewocz.

Professionally, Gary was an esteemed Electrical Engineer for IBM in Kingston, NY, where he dedicated 30 years before retiring in 1993. His passion for education led him to teach at UCCC for two years and at BOCES for 20 years. All while writing the text book, Electrical Theory for Renewable Energy in 2013. Gary's commitment to his community was evident through his active involvement in various organizations. He was a member of the Saugerties Reformed Church, a past president of the Blue Kats Men's Club, the Northeast Wood Turners and lifetime member of the Saugerties Fish and Game Club. His professional affiliation included the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

He was an avid antique collector, particularly fascinated by the history and memorabilia of the Civil War. His love for the outdoors was expressed through fishing and hunting. His experience fishing the Hudson River striped bass migration and salmon on Lake Ontario was detailed and vast.  Gary's commitment to youth development was evident in his role as a Little League Coach and as an Eagle Scout Coordinator for the Rip Van Winkle Council.

A funeral service to celebrate Gary's life will be held at 11 AM on July 2, 2025, at the Saugerties Reformed Church. The family welcomes friends to arrive an hour prior to the service. Arrangements are under the direction of Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home Inc., Saugerties. Memorial contributions may be made to the Dutch Reformed Church of Saugerties and the Hudson Valley Hospice. Gary's life and the memories he created with those he loved can be further celebrated and shared at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com.

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