Obituary of David O. Goens

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana on June 14, 1931, David O. Goens was the youngest son of the late Dale and Thelma Taylor Goens. He entered into eternal rest on February 25, 2019. After high school, David served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Following his military discharge, he became a member of the American Legion. Thereafter, he spent many years working at Grumman Aerospace Corporation, which was the leading 20th century U.S. producer of military and civilian aircraft. David took pride in being a part of constructing the historic F14 Tomcat fighter planes. Grumman's family picnics were a source of joy for him and his sons, along with their many friends that, for just one day, he would "play" surrogate dad. Later, he was employed by Fairchild-Republic Co., then by the Baldwin Union Free School District until his retirement in 2007. David accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and joined the Free Will Baptist Church in Freeport, NY. In 1965, he became a member of the Union Baptist Church, under the pastorate of Rev. Clinton C. Boone, and was an active member for nearly 54 years. He was a regular volunteer at Union's food pantry, where he served the homeless and less fortunate. Those who knew David, knew that he loved to sing. He was a member of the Male Chorus, Senior Choir, and the former Gospel Chorus at Union. He regularly visited Nassau County Correctional Center with the Male Chorus to sing and share the Gospel with the residents. He was also a member of the Hempstead Acapella Ensemble. He often entertained his family by singing his version of "Mother McCree." David truly lived out Matthew 25:37-40. One of his favorite pastimes was working in his garden. He loved growing tomatoes and cucumbers, but the crowning glory of his garden was his collard greens. David also enjoyed meeting people, and was able to do this daily when he owned and operated Laurie's Hot Dog Truck. He would provide service with a smile, and always offered a listening ear. He also loved to bake. His family loved his lemon meringue pies. David was a loving and devoted father and husband that will truly be missed. His legacy will live on through his wife, Leora; sons David, Dexter (Rosa), Darrell (Nerissa), and Howard (Sharon); daughter Gail (Timothy); grandsons Armani, Andre, Devin, Dillon, and David; granddaughters, Camille and Kristin; and a host of relatives and friends.