Raymond Lynn Goad

Raymond Lynn Goad, affectionately known as ‘Butch, Lynn, Ray, or R.L.,’ at age 81, peacefully passed away on December 31, 2024. He was born on April 17, 1943 to the late Raymond and Rena Goad, and lived a full life in Grand Junction, Colorado. 

He is survived by the love of his life Arlene, wife of 61 years, his brother Earl 'Larry' Goad (deceased wife Lora, deceased wife Dixie and deceased friend Teri), sister Leandra Snyder (Bill) and sister Roxina ‘Rocky’ West (deceased husband Jim). Four children; Rhonda McKeown, Tina Casso (Victor), Chamaine Ready, Trisha Giallanza (Charles). Grandchildren; David Mckeown (Elizabeth), Andrea Mckeown-Prilika (John), Victor Casso (Charlotte), Evan Casso (Noel), Layne Ready (Jen), Amanda Patterson-Naser (Matt), Alicia Book-Garner (T.J.), Hannah Reed (Cody), Donovan Giallanza, Ava Giallanza. Great-grandchildren; Evelette McKeown, Denver Mckeown, Sawyer Rowland, Myla Rowland, Tillie Casso, Cora Casso, Emmerson Naser, Jayce Naser, Aaliyah Harrison (Blayden), Annay Logan, Dayon Logan, Dionte Book, Amar Harris, Marli Harris. Great-great grandchild; Hayden Richards. He is also survived and preceded by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, brother-in-laws, and friends who loved him dearly. 

He was a doer and fixer with many talents and hobbies with a passion for making and listening to music. In his early years he liked bowling and…well, a bunch of crazy stuff. Later, he loved to garden in the view of Mt Garfield and take the tractor for a whirl. He was always a caretaker and friend to animals – or maybe they were taking care of him. Over the years he loved exploring the mountains to hike, camp, take a boat out, fish, hunt, find beautiful rocks and treasures, and taking drives to see the horses and sunsets. As a railroader (D&RG RR and Amtrak Conductor) he made long lasting friendships and shared his love of trains, especially with the kids, that created wonderful moments together. He was a person of quiet faith. This faith guided him through life, in every circumstance, that allowed deep relationships along the way.

His compassion to help whoever, with unconditional love bigger than the universe, was the bedrock of his soul. He lived with determination and stubbornness to right the wrong, feed those who were hungry, give a couch to sleep on or roof over their head.  

Each of us who shared his life holds their own special memories and their own story of him. So many stories! We will miss the making of them, but will enjoy the telling of them.  

The Celebration of Life will be planned for a future date this Spring or Summer. 

In lieu of flowers please plant a tree or consider a contribution to a charity close your heart. Here are a few he might would consider: Homeword Bound homeless shelter, Roice Hurst animal shelter, Habitat for Humanity, Donor Alliance – organ donation program.