Thomas R. Goodale

THOMAS ROBERT GOODALE

February 26, 1947-July 30, 2025

Thomas Robert Goodale, 78, of Richfield Springs, New York, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at Little Falls Hospital, New York. Tom was born on February 26, 1947, to Georgia Elizabeth "Bette" Ellis (1917-1977) and Ralph Joseph Goodale (1916-2000). Surviving Tom are his wife, Marcia; son, Joshua Thomas; daughter-in-law, Shannon Carol; grandsons, Oliver Ryan and Fletcher Matthew, all of Pasadena, Maryland; his brother, David Carlton Goodale of Clifton Park, New York; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom lived life on his terms, intentionally grounded by simple values that filled his years with happiness, as well as courage and compassion. He was one of those rare individuals who said exactly what he was thinking; he believed life was too short for ambiguity. He held those he loved closest to his heart and earned everything he cherished in life: love, respect, and friendships.

It was Tom's sense of humor, sharp and self-depreciating, that helped him through many of life's poignant adventures, including the aches and pains of aging and math. He was always ready for fun, which often meant happily spending time in the kitchen. Joy was the key ingredient in everything Tom cooked, and that joy brought people together over excellent food, lots of laughter, and created memories that will last lifetimes. Tom was an avid car enthusiast, owning many incredible cars over the years, starting with a blue Corvette. He also embraced the profound benefits of solitude and the rewards of connecting with nature when hunting and fishing.

Tom had an unwavering love for his family. He cherished every moment—the goodnight kisses, the long car rides holding hands, and the quiet mornings on the deck overlooking the pond shared with Marcia, the love of his life, whom he married on June 4, 1976. One of his happiest memories was July 1, 2006, when Josh and Shannon got married, with fireworks. Oliver and Fletcher brought immense joy to Tom's world, whether they were making pickles, picking pumpkins, camping, or playing sports—he was a proud grandpa.

He graduated from Richfield Springs Center School in 1965 and worked as a machinist for two years. In 1967, Tom volunteered to serve his country in the United States Army as an OV-1 navigator, serving many tours during the Vietnam War. He was an active member of the Richfield Springs Veterans Club and the Richfield Springs Sportsmen Club. Tom truly believed in Veterans' organizations; he was active in serving his brothers who served our country.

Tom will always be remembered for his infectious laugh, his always perfectly timed sarcasm, and for making the world more joyful while he was here. The family extends sincere thanks to the care teams at Bassett Hospital, Lutheran Home, and Little Falls Hospital.

A graveside service with Military Honors for Thomas Robert Goodale will be held Saturday, August 30, at 11:00 am in Lakeview Cemetery with the Reverend Jill Stellman officiating—a celebration of life to follow at the Richfield Springs Vets Club.

Instead of flowers, please donate in Tom's memory to the Richfield Springs Vets Club, Canadarago Lake Improvement Association, or Richfield Springs Emergency Rescue Squad. Envelopes will be available at the celebration.

Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home Inc., 40 West James Street, Richfield