Lt Col Steven P. Goff passed away on Monday, September 4, 2006. At the time of his death, Dr Goff served as the Chief of Aeromedical Services at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana. Prior to his service at Malmstrom, he also served at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota; Andersen Air Force Base in Guam; and Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany. As a Senior Flight Surgeon, Dr Goff risked his life regularly performing search-and-rescue missions in helicopters in harsh blizzard conditions throughout Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, saving hikers, hunters, skiiers, and others who got lost or stranded in the wilderness. Dr Goff was assigned to the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia when terrorists bombed the barracks in 1996, and despite suffering serious wounds, Dr Goff immediately jumped into action and began providing life-saving medical care to his fellow Airmen. For his actions, Dr Goff was presented the Airman's Medal by then-Chief of Staff General Fogleman (pictured above). Prior to his service in the US Air Force, Dr Goff also served in the US Marines. Dr Goff was born and raised in Wisconsin, loved the outdoors and reading, and is survived by his parents and two sisters.
93 Comments:
Steve was a great guy who was always honest and straightforward. I will miss him very much. He was sweet and funny and had a kind and gentle heart. I onlly wish he knew how much we cared for him.
My heart hurts tonight as I remember Dr. Goff. Our family met Steve when we moved to Grand Forks AFB shortly after him. It was an honor to have him as our family's doc as well as my husband's superior. But most of all, I count it a privilege to call him my friend. He was willing to do just about anything for me when Bob was deployed. I think he assembled a yard swing, repaired my TV, rearranged some furniture and shoveled my driveway.
Dr. Goff will be remembered fondly in my heart. I will be praying for peace for all of us who will be grieving his passing.
Sincerely,
Angie Andrews
Dr. Goff came back to Malmstrom with a Cheesecake legacy. That was the first thing that I was told about him, he made great cheesecakes. Boy was that true!!
Dr. Goff will be missed for his sense of humor, his caring for all he came in contact with, and for just being the great guy that he was. I always new that if I needed to talk to someone, that I could talk to him. Any time I needed cheered up, he always had a funny joke or saying to tell me that would definetly cheer me up! I am grateful that I could call him a friend and I will truly miss my friend.
Dr Goff,
I can't believe that you are gone. But I must accept you are, and I must tell you if I can, what you meant to me. I know you are probably reading this as I write it down, I hope you understand what I can't put into words.
I want to let you know that I was honored to be your secretary while you were first stationed in Grand Forks, ND. When you came to work in the morning, you always had a smile on your face and said good morning to us all and then took the time to listen to some of the events that happened from the night before. I recall listening to your music as you sat in your room next to mine. It was always peaceful and you would sometimes humm along to the music. You hung a picture in my office with a brook running through the woods. It was beautiful, busy and yet calming. Lots of sparkly bubbly water, with shades of blue, lavender and other colors (colorful like you). We often joked that you might forget to take it with you when you got orders, but I received a different job and left first. You were an awesome gourmet chief, always bringing something good to eat in the office and at our office get togethers after work hours.
Dr. Goff, you are one of the most respected and decent men I've known. You listened, you put the desires and needs of us before yourself, you were compassionate, full of wisdom, advise and humor at the same time. You cared for everyone. It was plain to see your life's desire was to help people. You met and kept friends in every walk of life. You were reliable and dependable. You were a HERO in many ways. You were a breath of fresh air and an inspiration to us all.
Dr. Goff, although you may have left a hole in our hearts for now, I know that you will fill it ten times over until we meet again and that you will send comfort to your family and friends who are grieving.
Team Aerospace will always be held together by the times we shared as a family, and in our hearts and minds you will always be.
Thanks so much for being my friend.
Thank you
LA VONNE K. STOIK
Doc Goff,
To say the carpet was pulled out from under me when I heard of your passing is an understatement. Your brilliance, charisma, witt, uniqueness ( I could go on forever) is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life, the biggest charachteristic you had in my life was listening and giving advise, even sometimes giving the advise, no on wanted to hear at the time. During the late night stays for Profiles and Standards, you were there when I neded advise. I returned today to Malmstrom for your memorial, I know you were looking down on us and wonder what your thoughts were "Carry On" is the thought that went through my head. I will carry on, and remember you as a Senior Flight Surgeon, who made a difference in so many lives, only for you to know just how much now. Being at Hill AFB now, there are 8 People whom knew you as well, and are miffed, I know you are in a better place where there is no pain, for that I am grateful. To Mr. and Mrs. Goff, your son brought so much to our Air Force Family, no words will describe how he touched the lives he did. To the fellow Airman, reading this web page and were not able to come today, know that his rememberance was awesome. Yes the "I made this gift especially for you" (fake feces) and the two books previously mentioned on this website, were on the table.
Lt Col Goff, we salute you for the son, brother, patriot, veteran, doctor, friend, and so much more,
you will be missed. As you would write in the emails you sent when in the Flight Commander position. We salute you and with time we will: "That is all, Carry On"
With respect and condolences
TSgt Kathleen A. Turner
I will miss Dr Goff. I loved to go to his office and just talk. It was always a treat--whether we were arguing or just laughing, it felt like going the rounds with a brother. He would go way out of his own way to help anyone in need, and do so quietly if at all possible. He cared about his patients--and about the military. I hope he knew we cared about him.
It is with much sadness I write this note. I was floored when I received the news about the passing of Doc Goff. His character, honesty, and candor were three attributes that stood out to me. We have lost a friend and good man, but his memory will forever live on in the lives of those of us who knew him. He so rightly deserves to be remembered in death as he was in life, as an officer and a gentleman who served so many with honor and dignity. I know we will all miss the twinkle in his eyes and the quirky little smile on his face.
Mr. and Mrs. Goff and family - you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Doc Goff - we miss you!
This is a sad day for all of us in the USAF! I was with Dr. Goff at Khobar Towers during the "Cowardly Attack" and watched him take care of our personnel. Our prayers are with his familiy ... he will be greatly missed!
Wayne Mello Sr, GS-13, DAF
Chief, Fire Emergency Services
Holloman AFB N.M.
* Former Fire Chief,
Khobar Towers, Dharan, Saudi Arabia
WE WERE VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF STEVE'S PASSING. WE HAD JUST MET STEVE A FEW MONTHS AGO. WE TOTALLY ENJOYED OUR EVENING WITH HIM AND FOUND HIM TO BE VERY KIND AND FUNNY. OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
MIKE AND KARLA RUSTIN
I was introduced to Steve Goff,in August 2004 in Great Falls, Montana, by a mutual friend, so I knew him as Steve, the man. I knew he was a great person when one of my shy dogs took to him like his long lost master. He loved animals and bought my dogs matching Halloween outfits and matching toys, so they would not fight. He was a great cook, wine connoisseur, gadget guru, camper, story teller and so much more. Above all else I enjoyed our long conversations and picking his brain. No subject was taboo for Steve!! He always had me laughing, and sometimes blushing. I will miss those times. There is no one that can replace a man like Steve and all he was. I just wish he had known one phone call and I would have been there. Goodbye my friend...I will miss just knowing you are there.
Steve was a quirky, funny, talented man who will be missed by those who knew him. A big smile comes to my face when I think how happy I would be when I'd see him walk in with one of his famous homemade cheesecakes! I am sorry that he left this world so early. I pray his family will find peace.
I will always remember Steve as a great friend, as a great doc and one I could count on for sage advice and honest opinion. I enjoyed laughs and talking about bike riding with Steve. I respected him for his compassion and service to others. Steve sent me two nice notes over the last few years I will always remember...one when I was down, and one when he wanted to share congratulations. I am proud to have served with Steve.
I am one of Steve's many, many cousins. Unfortunately, I did not know him well as an adult. As I child, I always wanted to be part of Steve's family--they seemed to have so much fun and they laughed a lot. His parents and siblings are very, very proud of him. I was at the Wisconsin memorial service and was very, very pleased to meet the members of the Air Force who travelled so far to attend the service and console the family members. I am humbled to have such kind, gentle, loyal, generous and genuine cousin. His spirit lives on.
As I read these comments, I recognize names from the past and remember many great times, of which Steve was often at the center. As I see it, many of us lost a mighty oak in our midst, someone who was always there when we needed him and yet never asked anything in return. I can only echo what others have already said, that Goffy was just a truly great person. I will never understand why, and even though this will leave a scar for many of us, Goffy will forever be remembered as a hero in my book. I am sorry that I was not able to attend his service in Wisconsin this weekend, but am thankful to those who were able to make it there to celebrate Steve's life. I wish his family strength to get through this difficult time. I will miss him.
Semper Fi,
Abe Timmons and family
It Happened
How could this happen to a man like you?
The way you lived would be envied by some,
On your own, A military officer, A doctor,
Never did I think this would happen to you,
When did this happen? On a day like this?
The bombs took down the towers and your emotions with them,
Such trauma, such pain, such horror from raw life,
The mission of men causes the demise of their brothers,
Why would this happen to such a man?
You always seemed so happy when I was with you,
With your family, the ones you loved, and who love you,
As soon as you went back, you were alone, once again,
I hoped we could get to know each other better,
I hoped we would enjoy the wonders at Glacier or Yellowstone,
I looked up to you, A doctor, an officer,
What I wanted to be, I never really knew you,
And it happened because you were alone,
That’s a couple attempts and three complete I’ve seen in under a year,
I know those who know the way it goes,
They felt their friends and loved ones leave,
I never thought it would affect me too,
And yet, still, it happened, to you,
What could have been happening to you in this?
You dealt with it and suffered for years,
You tried to fight it, to cure it, and then to end it,
Despite all the efforts you must have made, it happened,
No matter what we try to do, it still happened,
It’s inevitable and I’m going to have to accept it,
So are your parents, your siblings, and your friends,
As we move along we learn from what happened to you,
How could this happen to a man like you,
The life you lived would be envied by some,
All alone, in such pain, lingering on the edge,
In the end, because we couldn’t be there, it happened,
Written by Lt. Col. Steven Goff's 14 year old nephew Andrew
I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of the military personnel that attended my brother's funeral yesterday. I only wish I could spend more time talking to you. Your words and tears were so touching, and also very hard to deal with. You all knew him better than we did. He was gone from us for 30 years. I have some of your addresses and will try to send you a note. Some of you didn't leave any contact information. I will try and reach you. Thank you Lt. Col Edward Farley and Terri Anderson (sorry I don't remember your rank) for bringing my brother home. I can only imagine how difficult that was for both of you. Lt. Col. Farley, your vigilance as you sat by my brother's remains was so touching, thank you. Terri Anderson gave a beautiful eulogy for Steve. Your words meant so much to us who have been away from him for so long. Thank you. I cannot describe the pain I personally am going through, or the pain of my sister and parents. I know we will talk often about my brother, and I hope over the years the pain will lessen. I would also like to thank Major Bob Shampo for what he has already helped us with and ask the Lord to help him over the next several months, as he deals with a very difficult assignment.
Steve's sister, Toni
I am Steve's sister, Kathy and I want to thank everyone for their kind words of my brother, thank you to Edward Farley and Terri Anderson for all that you did, and Thank you also to all of the other Air Force personnel family and friends who have helped us along the way. It really helps to read and hear of the stories you have to tell of my brother Steve, yet it is hard to know that you shared so much more with him than we ever were able to. My husband and I were out to see him last year and that was the last time we were able to hug him and spend time talking and laughing with him, I will always cherish his sense of humor and his words of wisdom. I only wish I could pick up the phone and call him to help me through this. Steve was and always will be a HERO to us.
WE LOVE YOU STEVE
TIM AND KATHY ABLEIDINGER AND FAMILY
Steve, your parents welcomed me and my family as if we were related. When I first met you in Vernon you were everything your Mom and Dad described, kind, funny, intellegent, witty,thoughtful,patriotic, and a true humanitarian (it must be a Goff tradition).
We were supposed to go canoeing on the Fox river, I guess we'll have to put that off till we meet again one day. Until that day comes, you take care of my parents in heaven and I'll take care of yours down here.
Your parents are almost carbon copies of mine so you won't have a hard time finding them.
You were and ARE an insperation to us all, you were just too good at covering your pain.
The Air Force is suffering a huge loss with your parting, but as you soar up to heaven I know your prayers for mankind are floating down to earth. May you find eternal peace in the loving hand of God.
Say hello to Mom and Dad and I'll do the same.
Mark Tylinski
To those who weren't able to attend the memorial service in Big Bend, Wisconsin, and those who did attend: I am one of Steve's cousins. I took many photos of the memorial and have placed them on a website through Kodak Gallery. If you would like to see the photos, please send me your email address and I will have Kodak Gallery send you access. gsnowdenATwiscDOTedu.
I never had the honor to know Steve as Doc Goff, although I have considered him a hero since he joined the Marines. Steve was like a big brother to me when we were teens; he was a farm hand on my Grandmother's farm. It was an idyllic time, between haying and farm chores he told me of all the places he wanted to see and how he was called to serve this country and become a veternarian as well as have a cabin in the foothills of Yellowstone Park. I remember him as very strong, funny, gentle, compassionate and his laugh could light up any dreary day. He could defuse any angry or anxious moment with a simple one liner! One time I recall there was a kitten who was stepped on by a cow and my uncle was going to euthanize it, but I helped Steve splint its leg. I don't recall if the kitten made it, but he was going to at least try! We were pen pals for a short time after he went to Camp Pendleton, but time and college got in the way and I lost track of him. Occassionally I would hear of his exploits from Mukwonago friends, but you see I never left my comfort zone of Mukwonago and while I was busy starting a family and career here, he was virtually saving lives on a daily basis. He will forever be my hero.
When I learned of his death, I felt as if I had been kicked in the chest by a horse. How could a childhood friend, so young and so wonderful be taken from us so very early? At the memorial I learned of the situation and felt like a truck hit me. My dear mother mentioned that during his service to our country, Steve saw so much violence and death, things that no one should ever have to experience and he was obviously a very strong man who worked tirelessly for our freedom. (I like to think I get my wisdom from her.)
I am sure I was of very little comfort to the family that day, but I want Shirley, Jerry, Kathy and Toni to know that depression is a disease as strong as any cancer and is more difficult to overcome than any addiction. I am sure he fought valiantly and is presently at peace with Jesus at his side. My prayers are with Steve and his family. He will always be my hero.
Faithfully yours,
Laura Hendrickson,RN
Mukwonago, WI
I really have no words to say how this last week has been. Steve touched so many lives, from his family and hometown friends to his Air Force family and all of those in between. I feel blessed to have had Steve be a part of my life as a family friend and as a young officer in search of guidance. His mentorship in my Air Force career will continue to guide me in many years to come. I am grateful to have met his friends from around the Air Force and hope his family found comfort in hearing their many stories! The Goff family has always been like a second family to me and will be in my thoughts and prayers always. Thank you for letting us share in his life.
Love-
Carrie Worth
I also am one of Steve's many many cousins. Though I did not see Steve often, our families did spend time together on many camping trips when we were "much" younger and I don't necessarily have a lot of memories of that time. What I do remember is his kindness, gentle spirit & especially his sense of humor. My heart hurts for him that he felt so alone, but yet proud that he was was able to help so many whether it was him being a doctor or a friend.
My thoughts & prayers are with everyone who had a connection to Steve, especially Aunt Shirley, Uncle Jerry, Toni & family, Kathy & family.
Mary Kay Vanden Heuvel
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Goff while stationed at Grand Forks A.F.B North Dakota.
He always had a smile on his face and a joke or two to lighten the day.
I can remember assisting him with a minor procedure, and him using the time to educate me on the intricacies of "The Man Show" and girls jumping on trampolines.
I remember being delighted to get a phone call from him on my 2nd deployment telling me he was going to be deployed to the same location, and asking me what kind of liquor the clinic needed...he always had a joke.
Most fondly, I remember the Med Group having a soup cook off, and me being disgruntled because they never had any vegetarian options. Lo and behold Dr. Goff appeared at the cookoff with the most delicious wildrice and mushroom soup I'd ever had. He was even kind enough to write it down for me, and I have it right here in front of me.
I plan to cook it and share it with my sweetheart when he returns from Iraq.
Dr. Goff, I don't know if these messages will ever reach you, but you are a good man, and you are deeply loved. The world is missing one of it's brightest, shining lights tonight.
Blessings to you, wherever you are.
TSgt Kianna Stewart
Pope AFB, NC
To the family of Doc Goff
I want to thank you for letting us attend Dr Goff's service, allowing us to share in the stories, the greifing, talking with your family and freinds about our times with Doctor Goff. But most of all...letting us pay our respects to Doc Goff whom we loved. You gave us a sort of closer. He was a gracious, giving leader with untouchable integrity. He was an honorable man to be proud of. Since i have known him he has been there with support and guidance in my miltary career and my personal life. It was a true honor to be able to say i knew and worked with him.
We had a couple of long days of stories, laughs and tears, and very little sleep. It was great to see those of you from the Air Force who could make the trip. Thank you for the time we had together, I will cherish it for days to come. Some stories will surly bring a chuckel every now and then. One thing I know is that we have ties that can not be broke.
To those of you from our Grand Forks Team Aerospace that could not make the trip, know a coin was droped. You will never guess who didn't have his. We missed you and we knew you were there in spirt with us.
Letting go of someone you love so dearly does not go away. Wondering why they were taken can not be answered on this earth. Keep in touch. Talk to each other, make that call, send the email. Because tomorrow does not always come. But through Gods Grace we will meet them again and what a celebration it will be.
Chief Cox
Retired in Minnesota
This is to Steve's family, friends and co-workers. I met Steve through his Mother. We worked together at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. When I had my first child, Shirley said she had a babysitter for us. Her daughter Kathy. But there were a few times that Steve had to fill in. He seemed to leave home so early in life to join the Marines. Then he was in school and became a Dr. And then, he joined the Air Force. Our family by then was very close to his. So when Steve was coming home, we got excited too. The little girls he babysat for, joined the Air Force. Our families united even more. We understood the lingo like TDY and seperation. We gave each other comfort when one of them deployed. We sat with them the time we waited to hear if Steve was ok. We celebrated his accomplishments, and his promotions. He celebrated ours. Never did I think that we would have to comfort them because of his passing. He was brilliant, vibrant, successful, humorous and loving. He is a loss to anyone who was lucky enough to have met him.
I want to thank all of the military who traveled to WI to pay tribute to Steve. I heard the Air Force family was close, and now I saw how close. Thank you for sharing the part of Steve's life we didn't know. Thank you bringing him home with such respect.
I will be praying for all of us as we greive and remember Steve.
With love,
Carole Worth
I am at a loss for words, except that Dr. Goff was one of the first dr's I worked with and had known me since I was a "baby airman". I am so sad to hear this has happened, and I remember all the funny jokes and pranks he would play, all the homemade food he brought to the potlucks that all of us looked forward to. He was an amazing man, an amazing doc, with patients requesting to be seen only by him. He will be greatly missed. We love you Dr. Goff.
I do not remember the first time I met Steve. His younger sister Kathy was my first babysitter and his family my second family. All of my memories growing up involve the Goff’s. So with a heavy heart I say good-bye to a family friend who made me laugh and offered me encouragement and guidance as a young officer and a nurse.
To his family I send all my love, support, and prayers. He was a son, a brother, an uncle, a friend, a mentor, a doctor, an officer but most of all he was Steve. I will never understand why he chose the path he did, but what I do know is that he loved with all his heart and inspired those around him. Steve lives on in all of us who knew and loved him. I will miss his smile, his laugh, and most of all his hugs.
With love,
Sarah (Worth) Crownson
I was thinking that if I waited long enough, I would actually be able to write a simple note without crying. That is why I have waited so long. I am not really sure that it is going to work though. I am devestated by the loss of Dr. Goff. He was always so upbeat and fun to be around, that it doesn't seem possible he isn't here anymore. I worked with Doc in Grand Forks, also. Just as everyone has already said, he could always make us laugh, gave away the best stuff, brought awesome food in he had made and was just the most gentle, caring, and halarious soul. I don't know how many times we would be in a meeting and I would ask for his "joke of the day." It was always good, too! I have so many great memories of Doc. I wasn't able to attend the funeral, but I am thankful that there was a nice representation or our Grand Forks family. I am sure that it made it just a bit easier to handle, being together.
Thank you to Dr. Goff's family for being so gracious to my husband and friends that could attend. I know you realize that your son, brother, nephew, cousin, close family friend, ment the world to all of us, too. We love Dr. Goff and will miss him very much. But know that he still makes us smile through our tears! I pray for God's comfort for you during this difficult time. God bless you.
Love,
TSgt Keri Chandler
I'll always remember Steve when he was 15 or 16 years old and baby-sat for my 4 boys. I believe that is when they learned to give "snuggies". They loved him and so did we. He will always be in our prayers and may God take as good care of him as Steve did to so many others. Jim & Kathy Dulka
I don't know what to say. I am Steve's Mom. This is so hard to understand. He was a wonderful son. He was very caring and loving throughout his life. He was a very giving person. Last time i talked to him he said " I want to try to get home for Thanksgiving", I asked him if he couldn't make it for Christmas, because he hadn't been home the past two years at Cheistmas. All I can say is thank you,to all the people that came to his sad, but beautiful funeral. All the support from the Air Force , our Daughter Toni, husband Tom, Daughter Kathy husband Tim, Grandchildren Mandi, Pete, Andrew & Joseph and other family members & friends.
Love & Prayers for all.
Thank You for all the great messages about him. MOM
I only found out today about Dr. Goff's passing because I've been on vacation. My heart just aches for him and his family. I worked at the HAWC on Malmstrom AFB and only saw Dr. Goff occasionally. However, he was always someone I wanted to be around more because he was so much fun. Whenever I saw him come to the HAWC or if I ran into him at the med group I always knew things were about to perk up with Dr. Goff in the area. He easily had us laughing and often lightened the load of a stressful day at work. He was a good guy and I'll miss him.
Haylee Foster
Malmstrom AFB and fellow Wisconsinite
Doc Goff,
I was extremely sad to learn of your passing away. I flew with you many times at Malmstrom AFB and even managed to get a save because of you. You were absolutely fearless! It was an absolute pleasure flying with you. I hope you found peace. God bless you.
-Keith Friedman
The world is a lesser place without Dr. Goff! My wife and I are truly saddened by the news of his passing. I worked with/for him as part of the Aerospace Medicine Flight at Malmstrom AFB during his entire first tour in Montana. I believe he treated every member of my family at one point or another and set the bar high for every doctor we see now. He was truly genuine a person who would do anything to help you, then bake you a cheesecake after (the best in the world btw). He (subtly) taught me to find humor in nearly all situations and to relax and not take things too seriously. There are only a few people who have made a strong impact on my life - I only wish he knew how I/we felt about him.
To his family - you have every reason in the world to be proud of him and the life he led...he was a great man!
With Sympathy and respect,
MSgt Scott Dorton and family
I will miss him dearly and always remember his humorous personality.
-Maria and Michael Stout
Dear Steve,
Happy Birthday. It is hard for me not to pick up the phone and call you today. I miss you,I love you, and I really need to talk to you. This isn't getting any easier.
Love,
Kathy
Happy Birthday, Steve!
I wrote you a very long letter today. I guess I have to keep it because you aren't getting mail in heaven. I talked with Holli today, that was so nice of her to call. I emailed some of your AF friends and reminded them of your birthday. I'm sure they didn't need a reminder. I have so many questions for you. Somehow I have to accept the fact that they will never be answered. Not everyone agrees about what was going on with you that last day. You have left us an unsolvable puzzle. I love you and miss you. I hope your 49th birthday celebrated in heaven is your best ever!
Love,
Toni
HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!
I tried to bake you favoite cookies for you on your birthday. But i didn't get them baked yet. they have to go in refrigerator for awhile anyhow before I can bake them. i hope I can get them in the mail tomorrow for your friends at Malmstrom, maybe they will enjoy them with a glass of milk , as you always did.
Love and Prayers, Mom
Dear Mr.and Mrs.Goff,Toni and Kathy;
I was very sad to hear of Steve's passing. I knew Steve in HighSchool. He was my brother, Paul's bestfriend. We both played french horn in band. SteveandI went to solo ensemble contest together and did well. I have very good memories of Steve. He was a great guy and grew into a very good man. He will surely be missed. May God's blessings be upon him and his family.
Carol(Mueller)Reshan
Carol (Mueller) Reshan
Dr. Goff,
Thank you for visiting me in my dreams last night you made me feel more at peace with your passing. You were still your silly self and when I awoke this morning and remembered what you said a smile crept upon my face. My smiling days have been limited lately. Thanks for always being there for me and always knowing what to say. Miss you.
MB
Happy Thanksgiving, Steve. I sit here crying more than I have in a while. I guess I have held it together and now have to let it out. Thursday, we will have Thanksgiving at our home. Mom and Dad will be here, along with some of Tom's family. It will be so difficult to be here without you, you were supposed to come home this week. I think of all your Air Force family and pray that they are able to be with family and friends. I am sure some of them have celebrated Thanksgiving with you in the past. I am making a Pumpkin Cheesecake in your memory. You liked making and eating cheesecake, and many of your Air Force friends have had to pleasure of a piece. I am trying so hard to help all of us through your loss, but I feel like I am fighting a losing battle. Can you please send be some help from heaven? I would really appreciate it.
To all of you who take the time to visit this site and read this: Happy Thanksgiving and God's Blessing to all of you and your families. Thank you for whatever way you touched my brother's life.
Toni (Steve's sister)
HI Steve,
I know last year at this time Dad and I drove out to Monana to have a delicious Thanksgiving Dinner with you.
The wild-rice stuffing with cranberries in it was so good, also the pumpkin cheesecake and everything else you made. You were a GREAT cook, so are Toni and Kathy.
We plan on going to Toni & Toms for Thanksgiving Dinner. I will be making the pies tomorrow to take with. I plan on Apple and Pumpkin.I beleive Carrie Worth is now a Major, she left last week fot Iraq again. This is the third time already for her. They were two hours out over the ocean and had to turn around and come back, problems with the plane. I know Carrie plans on fixing Turkey for her friends while they are over there. She said "she feels as though you are watching over her" keep her safe.Her mom,Carole Worth, made some great dinner rolls the other day for us. She brought them to church with her on Sunday morning. So she was up early baking, they were still warm. She left Chuck at home to finish baking. I know several of your friends met the Worths' on September 9th at St. Josephs Church in Big Bend. They are such great friends.
I know you were planning on trying to get home for Thanksgiving this year. It looks like the weather should be nice for all the people traveling around this area. It looks like the temp. will be around 50 at least. I know you like the cold and snow better. Last year, on our way back from your home in Mt. we ran into a bad ice storm. Fortunatly it was quite a ways ahead of us and we were delayed for two days in South Dakota. We had stopped for gsa early Sunday evening, they asked which direction we were headed , Dad said East, they said no your not . They just closed down the next 250 miles of freeway because of an ice storm. The winds were so strong, It's a good thing I didn't have an umbrella. I would have blown away, just like Mary Poppins. It was hard for me to walk from the car to the resturant.
Iwant to wish all of your friends at Malmstrom, and and all the Air force bases A Happy Thanksgiving. Share the day with your friends.
Lots of Love and Prayers,
Mom
Dear Steve,
It's been 3 months today that you decided to leave us without saying goodbye, and we still don't understand. I wish I could call you up and talk, but I can't, this is all I have now to help me feel like I am still able to talk to you. This isn't getting any easier, only harder. We missed you for Thanksgiving and now we have to struggle through another holiday knowing you are no longer with us. It snowed today and it makes me sad to know that you are missing your favorite time of year. I have to believe that you are in a better place and now a happier man. We all loved you so much and the void we now live with is so lonely and empty without such an important part of our family.
Love,
Kathy
Merry Christmas Steve,
As you spend Christmas in heaven with both your Granparents. Gramma & Grampa Schleis and Gramma & Grampa Goff. Also your uncles , aunts and cousins that have gone there before you, so they can help show you around and have some relatives up there with you. Don't eat too much, enjoy some of the good homemade foods that the Grandmothers always made.We plan on going to Kathy & Tims' house,we plan on having Christmas on Saturday. Toni & Tom and Andrew & joseph will be there also. As you know we always would celebrate when we could be together. I can't remember when we had Christmas on Christmas day. Last time you were at Kathys' for Christmas was 2003.Remember when she had that pure white cat that you enjoyed playing with so much? i can't remember its name. I think it was Lucy. I beleive Peter and Tina have it now.I sent some Air Force blankets to some of your friends for Christmas.I beleive they are the same kind I made for you three years ago. I hope they enjoy them. I also sent one to Carrie Worth ,along with some slippers I made for her and some other goodies. She has been deployed again to Iraq, This is the third or forth time. Sarah & Bayo plan on being home for X-mas.
Lots of Love and Prayers,
Mom
I wish that I could pick up the phone and hear your voice. You always knew what to say to me even if I didn't always want to hear it. I still send emails to your work although they all come back undeliverable it somehow makes me feel that you are still with me. I'm sure my mother is with you now and I'm sure she is grateful to you for always taking care of Madison and I for so many years. I feel so lonely lately and this feeling won't go away. It's the daily things in my life that bring back a flood of emotions and memories of you. You are missing all the wonderful things in Madison's life. She had her first Valentines Dance, She finally got that A in math that she has been working on for so long and I sure could use your help in scaring these boys away. Madison still questions me about the cootie shot you told her about. I'll let her believe as long as I can that you can get cooties from boys. Your parents sponsored Madison in her Jump Rope for Heart this year. She wrote a beautiful Thank You card to them. Well I could ramble on all night but I will take a break and write more later. I miss you. I miss you very much.
When I was first told of Doc Goff's untimely death, it immediately brought a rush of emotions thinking about our long talks together. I first met Doc Goff in Germany in 1997 (?) and we went on several deployments together until 2000. After I left, we kept in touch periodically, e-mailing about what was going on in our lives and he always asked about my kids. He would end his e-mails with one of his off the wall jokes that would just make you laugh and say only Doc Goff would think of that. I didn't realize how much I missed him until I was cleaning out a drawer and found some items that he had given me, and then I remembered how big his heart was. He always gave an ear to listen to and never held judgment of anyone. I have a picture hanging in my office that he gave me and it is my reminder of a true gentlemen and friend. I miss you Doc and I like others wish I could have one more conversation with you to tell you how much I appreciated you as a mentor & friend.
Erica Gage
I was thinking of you today. The weather here is beautiful everything is blooming and the birds are singing. I had hoped in time the pain would start to subside but I still feel this empty feeling inside of me. Madison is growing up so fast. Your missing everything. Talk to you soon. I miss you.
I was thinking of you today. The weather here is beautiful everything is blooming and the birds are singing. I had hoped in time the pain would start to subside but I still feel this empty feeling inside of me. Madison is growing up so fast. Your missing everything. Talk to you soon. I miss you.
My name is Bryan Brock and I have to apologize for just finding out that Doc Goff had passed away. I had the privilege of serving with Doc twice. Once at Malmstrom and again when our paths crossed at Khobar towers. I was doing some research for a paper and wanted to mention Doc. After searching google I found myself here and truly saddened by his passing. I was only a medical admin guy (tracking patients, setting up computer terminals, etc.) but Doc treated us all the same, he was to put it plainly- a great person.
Within minutes of the blast at Khobar the wounded started showing up at our undersized, understaffed, clinic. I remember thinking the wounded would never stop coming. I think the total ended up being over 450. When I saw doc with the wound he had working like hell until he literally had to be pulled off of his patient, I found the courage I needed to get through those next 24 hours. When I am asked about my experience at Khobar and people hear my story they are amazed at the kind of heroic people we had there with us that night. We lost 19, but because of Doc Goff we kept some that would not have made it. Sir if you can hear me now and see me now, I salute you and will forever salute you when I hear our National Anthem played. My daughter doesn't understand why daddy cry sometimes when he hears taps, or the Star Spangled Banner, but someday when she is old enough she will understand.
My sincere condolences to all who know and love him,
Bryan M. Brock SrA USAF 1992-1998
A friend of mine who was at Khobar Towers with Doc Goff at the time of the terrorist attack informed me that Doc Goff had died a few months ago. I had the privilege of working with Doc Goff at Malmstrom when I was the aerovac coordinator there. I can't recall a more pleasant flight surgeon to work with. Whenever I dropped a stack of records on his desk, no matter how busy he was, he never groaned, he simply got the job done like the quiet professional he was. I remember sending him out on aerovac missions for the wounds he received at Khobar Towers and always telling the flight nurse in charge that they were in the company of a hero for that flight. I remember going to his Purple Heart ceremony and after the medal was presented to him and he was asked to speak he said "If you hear a big boom...duck." That was it; simple and to the point. God bless you Doc!
Joe Snyder
Dear Steve,
We all miss you so much. Just tonight I was thinking about sending another message. I looked and there were two new ones just posted today. There are so many people thinking about you. We will be going to Toni & Toms' on Sat. for Mothers day. Dad has been busy planting in the garden, you know he enjoys being outside as much as he can. We still plant a garden too big for two people, this way we have a lot to share with the neighbors.
Lots of Love & Prayers,OXOX
Mom
I find myself taking to you last night, once again asking for guidance as I undergo my MCAT preparation course. I logged into this site to again read of how you touched so many different lives around the Globe. It still amazes me that there are new commments added everytime I check. When I entered the first comment that day in September after learning of your untimely departure, I was still in shock and denial, as I've slowly come to terms with this I realize that we all touch people lives in different ways. I hope that you realize that you've made a difference to a lot of folks over the years and even though the world is a big place our military family was fairly small in comparison, for there are many of us that know's each other. Thank you for everything that you've done for all of us. As we come closer to Memorial day, rest assured that you will be remembered as a hero to us and a great and true friend. May god welcome you with open arms into his home.
God bless my friend.
Neil
I have thought about you ALOT this Memorial weekend, and I wonder if I will ever be able to think of you without the tears. Toni and I share alot of feelings with each other and alot of memories of you. We all miss you so much, and are very proud of our brother, son, and uncle and the hero that you are to us, you will forever be rememebered as a truly wonderful brother! I hope that you have found the peace and happiness that In our hearts and memories forever!
Love, Kathy
Hi Steve,
Today is Memorial Day and the boys were in the parade. Joe's band played the Marine's Hymn. How appropriate! I think at times I can forgive you for what you did, and wish that you have found peace where you are now. I even dreamt about you and you were happy. I guess that is the best I can hope for. Guide Kathy, Mom, Dad and me this next month as we deal with your entire household contents being returned to Wisconsin. I love you and miss you. I hope you knew how much we all loved you.
Toni
Hi Steve,
Memorial Day!
This has been a very difficult weekend.I hope you like your flowers.The lady at the floral shop wouldn't even let me pay for them.
Remembering all our family and friends and especially our SON, who have all gone before us. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Last night and again tonight there was a special on Tv from Washington D.C. honoring our men and women that have served or are serving our country. There were a lot of touching stories , many of them brought tears.
Steve, we are proud of what you did for our country, but I wish you would be HERE, to share your stories with us. Save us a spot up there, however, I don't plan on arriving soon.
We had dinner today at our neighbors, The Luthers, We sure have a lot of GREAT FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS.
LOTS OF LOVE & PRAYERS,
MOM OXOX
we miss you every day
Today makes it nine months and still the strain is hard and the pain is strong....we miss you Doc
Steven,
It is nine months today that you left us. It has been a very difficult time. It doesn't get any easier. We STILL Love you!
Mom
dr. goff mom says i can right to you anytime i want. i wanted to tell you that today i got my braces on. they hurt. i got all A's on my report card even in math. were you helping me from heaven. i got a new cat his namee is speckle because he had a black speckle on his nose. then mom gave him a bath and the speckle came off it was dirt. have you seen my grandma in heaven. tell her about my report card ok. mom and i miss you she still crys alot and has a picture of me and you on her desk at work from germany. i sometimes sleep in your tshirts that mom had. i love you. Maddy
Dear Steve,
It was eleven years ago today that terrorist truck bomb exploded outside Khobar Towers and killed 19 men and injured hundreds of others, which you helped take care of. However it changed your life forever. It evidently left a VERY DEEP HIDDEN SCAR, on your life, which really took your life also. We have been very busy going through your belongings, which is a very difficult task. They were just sent to us two weeks ago. Toni & Kathy & Tim were here also, Tom was home with Andrew & Joseph, as it was their last day of school. It has not been easy. Beleive me we would much sooner have been packing up and driving out to Montana to attend your retirement party at this time, than go through what we are doing now. This is not an easy chore.
We love You.
Mom
Dear Steve-
Yesterday evening, I was just sitting im my living room looking at my fireplace mantle. Above it hangs the framed B-1 Bomber print you gave me for my Air Force Academy graduation. I put a shell casing from your funeral above it...Just a simple reminder. Reading stories about the courage you displayed during the Khobar Towers attack reminds me that I had a hero as a friend, but never really knew it. But that's you simply doing your job with no need for recognition. I use you as my example on how to lead my professional life -- as a quiet professional. I'm getting ready to head out again, I know my family will appreciate you looking out for me :) I hope you are at peace now. I just wanted you to know I was thinking about you.
Carrie Worth
I just wanted you to know that I miss you. Will the pain every go away? Will this empty feeling subside over time? I don't think so. It hurts me to see Madison write you like your just in another state. It's hard. So hard.
Today would have been your first day of retirement. I was thinking about you all day.
I knew Steve through working with him during his residency in Wausau. He helped me through some pretty rough times in my marriage. I couldn't leave my husband because we would have to split the dogs. He understood that. After my divorce, I did get back in touch with Steve. He was in Guam. I was planniing to go visit him. He sent me a personalized teddy bear at Christmas, a dozen roses at Valentine's Day, many beautiful letters, and a vase I still keep on my desk. I even have a picture of him under water scuba diving. He was smiling and waving at me. I never made it to Guam, for reasons I am so mad at myself for. I thought about him so many times throughout my life. Today I thought I would try to look him up, and came across the terrible news. I can't stop crying. Why didn't I go see him in Guam? I will always love him deeply, and wonder what might have came of us if I would have went to Guam???
To the above Anonymous,
I am so sorry that you had to find out about my dear brother on the internet. There have been several people that found out through this site. I don't know you or your name, but I appreciate your comments. It is almost a year since we were told the terrible news. It is still very difficult, and has put strains on our family like you wouldn't believe. We all have regrets, similar to those you wrote of. I still wonder why and especially why he didn't seek help sooner. The whys are the hardest to deal with. I hope you check back and see this posting to you.
Take care and thank you for being a part of Steve's life.
Toni
Toni,
Thanks for the reply to my entry. I am having a very difficult time with this, so I can't even begin to imagine what you are going through. I just can't believe that he isn't here any longer. If there is anything I could change in my life, it would be going to be with him in Guam. I thought of that so many times through the years. I should have tried harder to get in touch with him after that. Anyways, I will say a prayer for your family, and for Steve in heaven. And right now, I am looking at the beautiful vase that he sent me, and thinking about him. I am so very sorry you have to go through this. I will keep checking the website. Thank you again for your reply, and know that I was someone that always loved Steve, and always will !!!
Dear Steven,
We just emptied the lg.storage unit we had rented and had delivered to our yard two months ago.When your household items were delivered here. It has not been easy going through all of your possesions. Toni, & Kathy and Tim & Joseph have been home at least three times.Trailor loads of items have gone from here,to Toni & Kathys homes for them and their children. We have made many trips to St Josephs' Church and School in Big Bend, WI. with items they could use. Also many things for a rummage which will be held this week-end along with our church festival.(Aug 10-11-12) Many of your books will be there all stamped with from the Library of Steven Goff.The Big Bend-Vernon Fire Dept. has your diving equipment, they were very happy to get it. Someone who has an exercise bike, already lost 10 lbs.
Many things are being put to good use. I hope you are smiling down at the people using them, but it would be so much nicer if you would be HERE smiling and laughing with us and them. Lots of Love and Prayers, Mom
Maybe whoever wrote this morning can find some of your books at St joes festival this week-end
just off of 43 & 164 in Big Bend Wi. S89 W22650 Milwaukee Avenue
Big Bend, Wi 53103
look us up
I would love a book from Steve's library, but I know that I won't be able to make it there to buy one. Is there any other way that I can get a book from his collection? It would really mean a lot to me to have one.
I just found out yesterday about Steve. I am having a very rough time with this, I just can't imagine how you as his family are dealing with it. Even though I didn't talk to him for 13 years, I always knew that he was somewhere out there, and that was always very comforting. It's hard knowing that he isn't there anymore, and he never will be again. I know he was a special person, and I only wish I would have appreciated that about 13 years earlier. Immaturity. And now I will never have the chance to make it right. Anyways, you are in my prayers. And I feel bad for Madison and her Mom. They sound so sad and lonely. I'm sure Steve is watching you both very closely. Take care.
The thing that bothers me the most is I didn't try to look Steve up earlier. If I would have thought of that a year ago, I could have tracked him down and told him how I felt. I wonder if he ever thought about me through the years. We lose touch with so many people in our lives, and always think you have forever to get in touch. Boy, did I learn a hard life lesson. Once again, Steve's unselfishness has made us all think about our lives and try to make it better. I wonder why Steve never got married and had kids? He would have been a great husband and dad. It makes me sad to think that he never had that special someone that he could have married and had a family with. Why did he have to do that???? I so badly want to wake up and think it was all just a bad dream.
Madison is growing into quite the young lady. School has started again and time= seems to fly but yet my life still feels slow and so empty. I miss you each and every day. Our friends have all moved on with their lives. I don't understand why mine seems at a stand still. I still look each day in the mail for a letter from you thinking you would have left me a letter something to explain. I guess it's the not knowing that hurts the most. To your friend who has written recently. I was stationed with Steve while he was in Guam. He was a wonderful man and friend. I'm sorry for your loss and that you just found out. If you want to talk please email me at spreecheck@yahoo.com. My friends tell me it's not normal to mourn for so long. I don't know why but this has torn me apart. He was part of our family for so many years how does the pain just go away. It doesn't....... I have felt extremely lonely and usure of what the future holds I do know now to tell those closest to me how important they are to me for you never know when the last time might be. Steve, I miss you soooooo much.
Marybeth
Thanks MaryBeth. I did send an email. Look for it, and hopefully it doesn't go into a SPAM folder.
Steven,
It will be one year since you have left us. Beleieve me, it has not been an easy time, it has been very difficult going through all of your personal belongings.Many of your Medical books will end up in Africa,at a Mission,and a Clinic being set up by Dr Bayo Crowson , former Doc in Air Force now practing in Idaho. Also a Minister a patient of one of the Dr's I used to work for is selling his home and moving his family to Ghana, in Africa and starting a Clinic & Mission he is leaving in October. Bayo was born in Ghana, that is where he is starting a clinc also. He was just there two weeks ago, his wife Sarah (Worth)
former nurse in Air Force was home at that time so I got to see her and their little girl, we had a nice visit.
Sure wish you were here so you could join your sisters for camping this weekend.
We sure MISS YOU, WE LOVE YOU!!!!!
MOM & Dad
One year ago my life was changed by a single phone call from Sam telling me you had taken your life. I was confused and still am about why but I have come to grips with the reality of maybe never knowing. I hope you have found your peace. I am looking for mine. I have learned from you that friends and family are so important and to live each day to the fullest. Your parents sent a package for her birthday. The cootie bug stamp made me smile. I have realized that the memories of you and I made have now made me smile and stopped the tears. I will move on but I will never forget you. Last night before bed we read the books Walter the Farting Dog and I felt as if you were there with us in spirit. Rest in peace. I will see you again. I love and miss you. MB
There hasn't been one day, this past year, that I have'nt thought of you,your family and your friends. So much love we have for you. I wonder you if you would have done what you did if you would have known or felt it.I would have to say, probably yes because I understand the depths of depression, when all a person can think is "I can't do this one more day,one more minute,one more second. No one can help or understand my pain."If you could have thought clearly, you would have known any of us would have done anything to help,even stay with you. I know you are now happy and at peace in the land of Paradise and in the loving arms of Our Father.I will continue to pray for you, your family and your friends. We will all be with you again soon, what a reunion that will be. I tried to phone your Mom and Dad, Toni,Kathy and Mary Beth today but did not connect. I will always love you.
To all of you who have posted things over the past year: Thank you. Your thoughts about my brother have helped me in my grief. He knew so many people, and so many of us loved him, but it wasn't enough. What a sad place to be. I pray that Steve is experiencing the happiness he deserved on this earth, now in heaven.
To my dear brother,
A year ago today you left us. Since that time we have all been through a tremendous amount of pain. I think of you daily and still wonder why, but I think I have a better understanding now. Mom and Dad have each dealt with this in a different way. I can't say that all of it is healthy, but I have encouraged them to seek grief counseling. I imagine that you would have done the same to patients of yours that had experienced a similar tragedy. It is very hard on Kathy and me to see them hurting and not being able to do much. Talking about you and what happened seems to be the best way to get through the rougher times. We all went camping together this weekend, but I really wished you could have been there too. I think you were in spirit; you made sure we had great weather, but you also made sure we had the natural annoyance of mosquitoes!
I will never be the same person I was a year ago. The day I found out about your death was the first day of school. Normally a very happy day, that day was. I remember talking to a friend at school about you that morning. How we were planning a trip to see you in June of 2007. I was so proud of you and telling her that you were a doctor in the Air Force. I hope you knew that. How was I to know that you were already gone and that I would receive a call from Mom that late afternoon, telling me that you had taken your own life. I was all alone when she called, and I still have trouble answering the phone, especially when I am alone.
I have continued on with my life and tried to be strong, but sometimes it is just too much.
Every night when I go to bed and ask you to come and talk to me. It hasn't happened yet, but I am still hoping.
Steve, I love you and miss you. I pray that you will watch over all of us you have left behind.
Love from your sister,
Toni
How can life move on for others, when it seems like it is at a standstill for people dealing with a loss of a loved one. Life doesn't stop for anyone. Everyone goes back to their normal, everyday routines, and the family doesn't even remember what a "normal" everyday routine even is anymore. To the family of Steve, I hope that you are beginning to find some peace and normalcy again in your lives. The normalcy in our lives is a gift we should never take for granted.
One whole year...
One huge unfillable void...
A whole lot of pain and sorrow...
Thanks for the years that you did give to us - Thank you for not sending me back to Sears - Thank you for helping build the treehouse - Thank you for making baling hay and weeding the garden "fun" - Thank you for the jokes, the card tricks, and the stories. Thank you for the talks, the advice and words of wisdom which I will value forever. Thank you for being a great brother and a friend. I love you and I miss you! REST IN PEACE
Love, Kathy
Steven,
I tried to explain why Kathy commented, she was glad you didn't take her back to Sears. But my story didn't register. I remember you and Toni told someone you orderd a surprise for Mom & Dad from the Sears Catalog, You ordered a Baby. So we always said, Kathy came from Sears.
We Love You & Miss You.
Mom
It has taken me over a year to write this...guess I never knew what to say about a man who cared for everyone he came in contact with. I think of Dr. Goff often...and hope he has found peace. I was stationed with him in Germany and many fond memories of him. Just the other day, I was going through old photo albums and came across some pictures of him at MB..boy, those were the days! I know this has been a difficult year for his family and friends but know that Dr. Goff was a wonderful and caring man!
In honor of Steve's Birthday, I am going to bake a pumpkin cheesecake. This will be a tradition I will do every year in honor of him. I remember the first time I tried his pumpkin cheesecake. My parents were visiting for Thanksgiving and Steve had made this gourmet meal for all of us. It was 10 years ago this Thanksgiving, I remember we had smoked turkey, chesnut dressing, and pumpkin cheesecake. Well that morning I got a call, Steve had to go on a search so he told me the food was in the oven come on over and enjoy. That is the kind of person he is, willing to share, open his home and welcome others. Later that night my parents were able to meet him and thank him in person for his kindness. Also compliment him on his great cooking skills. This is one of the many good memories that I have of Steve.
I just wrote about the pumpkin cheesecake, and at that moment of typing, I felt like we were all there. The memory seemed so fresh and recent. It brought a smile to my face when I thought of how kind Steve was, and it brought tears to my eyes when I thought of never seeing Steve again. This sight is very helpful in grieving for Steve, I think it has brought all those who knew him a little closer through sharing their memories. I know tomorrow is going to be another difficult day for his family, I just want to let you know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. He truly was a great person.
Happy Birthday, Steve! This would have been your 50th birthday. Time has a way of easing some of the pain, but it is still all to real. I think of you everyday and still wonder why. I think deep down I know the real cause of your pain over all those years. If only things had been different. I agree with the person who wrote the two previous posts. You were a truely giving man and loved by many. And, this site is a tremendous help in getting through this pain. I too have had Steve's pumpkin cheesecake, it was so good. I will continue his cheesecake making, but not today. Steve, I wish I could pick up the phone and call you to wish you a HB. I hope you will receive my wish in heaven. I love you and miss you.
Your sister,
Toni
HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!
Love You!
Miss You!
Wish we would have had more time, I still need my brother.
Love,
Kathy
HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!Time passes so slow yet so fast.Another Birthday and your family and friends long to call you and hear your voice. It's good to have this website, it helps somewhat thinking you'll get this in syberspace. I think of you daily and pray that someday you'll be able to contact your family and Mary Beth to let them your ok. It sure helped me when my loved one visited me. I LOVE YOU
Happy Birthday Steven!
On the big 50!!Dad & I went to Mass this morning at 8o'clock, the mass was for you. My sister Joan called from Manitowoc, she went to Mass this morning also and lit a candle in your memory. I had a phone call from a nurse I used to work with, remembering us today, thinking about you.I sent you three baloons late this afternoon, Dad wrote a message on one of them and I wrote on the other two. Steve, you had too many eltronic items, everything came back with the cords detached and packed separtly, we are having a difficut time finding where they all belong. I'm sure there are enough cords to stretch from Great Falls to Big Bend and back.
WE LOVE YOU, WE MISS YOU!
Lots of Lov & Prayers,
Mom & Dad
I haven't visited here site since your funeral. Guess I didn't want to open the wound like I just did by reading all of the beautiful messages. I am still angry with you although I think that anger holds back the hurt. I think of you and smile but I still feel jipped. We are moving next week to Saratoga and you would have loved it. It makes me think of your so often. I know you would have loved the lake house for sure. Dan finally convinced me to join the rednecks and move up. Scary and reminds me of moving to ND. You made that so much easier for me. I recently came across a quote that made me think of you. "Do not be afraid to let others into your life." You were so present for so many, you were in so many people's lives. I admire that about you. I only wish you could have let someone in that last day. I know the pain you must have felt. I have experienced that emotional pain that seems like it will never go away. I wish you had had someone there to hold you and know you the way you had needed to be safe that day. I hope you are all up in everyone's business, throwing plastic vommit on the floor, and telling all your corny jokes in heaven. When Snuggles died I knew she would be with you. She did good you know with the living and the dying. It was peaceful. Throw the ball for her as much as she wants and let her swim a while. Missing you. Amy
I promised myself I wouldn't come back to this site because of the pain I have felt since you left me. But yet I am drawed back because I miss you so much. Madsion went to a 50's dance tonight and her date brought her flowers. Nice but I was the protective mother. You would have scared the poor boy half to death and then we would have giggled about it later over a bottle of wine. Did I tell you I missed you today. I didn't hear that enough.
Hi Steve,
I'm sure you had a big smile on your face yesterday, when your two brothers-in-law took your Mazda out for a ride before putting away for the winter. First Tim and Kathy went for a ride and went into Muskego. Then Tom, took Andrew for a ride I don't know where they went, but they enjoyed it.
Then Tom took me out to drive the Subaru, I didn't have any problems. It's been an awful long time since I drove a car with a shift. I never drove a five speed. But I did fine. Joseph & Andrew helped rake leaves, Toni & Kathy dug the carrots, Tim & Tom helped Dad with planting grass seed and Cassandra helped me pick-up pine cones and she also helped with the carrots, she was a very good girl and a big help for a three year old.
Love & Prayers,
Mom
Steve,
I doubt anyone but you will read this, but I just wanted to let you know how difficult this week is. We will finally bury you on Friday, Oct. 24th, 2008. I still have a hard time believing you are gone. A day doesn't go by that I don't think of you and wish you were still here. Your nephews are growing into such fine young men and I think Andrew will become a doctor like you. I think you would have enjoyed watching him play football. His humor is so much like yours.
Friday is going to be so tuff. I don't want to bury you, yet this will be a final closure. I just wish it had been sooner, maybe we could have come to grips with this.
I've chosen a song or two to play at your service, please don't be offened by the belief in them. I know your beliefs weren't the same, but I hope that maybe now you do believe.
I love you and miss you, please watch over my boys from heaven. I worry so much about them.
Love,
Toni
Toni-
I don't know if you all still read this...but I do from time to time. I meant to respond to your earlier message much sooner! I was just thinking of Steve today. I am out at Nellis AFB for a 3 week exercise called RED FLAG. This is something Steve would have enjoyed! Still sending my love to all of you!
Love-
Carrie
Steve, I can't believe it's 8 years today that you left us. It still is hard for me and even harder for your family and MB, I hope you have found Peace in the loving arms of our Creator. Send some this way for your family and MB who obviously loved you very much. May she find peace so she can move forward and find love again. Love you lots. Marilyn
I thought about you last night during one of my PTS group session...after your death I asked my self how can someone like you do this, now I know. I wish you had reached out but I know how difficult that is and how the Military culture was back then...just 10 years ago, so much has changed some much progress has been made. I would crush you to know another one of our beloved GF clinic took the same path you did...I came close twice and hope that I never ever go back to that dark hole. I still miss you Steve but I cherish the times at GF you always made me laugh, I can still hear you saying "I wished my folks had named me Jack"....miss you my friend.
I just discovered Dr. Goff passed and feel so saddened. I know it has been over 10 years but I have thought about this man many times over the years even though I was not that close with him. I served with him at Malmstrom from 96-99 working in the orderly room as well as Aerovac and have such fond memories of him. Like the posts here I've read I concur--he was so funny, down to earth and an example and mentor for all who knew him. I knew of his time at Khobar Towers and knew of his sacrifice and had deep respect for him and honored him as a hero and patriot. I have been hearing about our patriots who have taken their own life and feel so saddened by this and hope our country gets out of these endless wars that have caused so much pain and destruction for all involved. I pray Dr. Goff is at peace now and I feel compelled to somehow help those that are on that downward spiral.....God Bless our troops like never before. RIP
SRA Olson
Malmstrom AFB
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