Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Gary David Goldberg
Gary David Goldberg
Obituary
Guest Book
Gary Goldberg Obituary
Goldberg died of brain cancer in Montecito, California, on Saturday, days before his 69th birthday, The New York Times reported.
Goldberg's TV successes also included the ABC comedy "Spin City," which in 1996 reunited him with "Family Ties" breakout star Michael J. Fox as the deputy mayor of New York City.
"With a full heart I say goodbye to my mentor, benefactor, partner, second father and beloved friend," Fox said in a statement on Monday. "He touched so many with his enormous talent and generous spirit. He changed my life profoundly."
A more modest hit for Goldberg yet much-acclaimed, CBS' "Brooklyn Bridge" (1991-93) was a tender comedy based on his experiences growing up in Brooklyn, New York. Marion Ross starred as a character inspired by his grandmother.
Goldberg's films included "Dad" (1989), starring Jack Lemmon and Ted Danson, as well as "Bye Bye Love" (1995) and "Must Love Dogs" (2005), which he wrote as well as directed.
His own dog, Ubu, contributed the name of his production company and was widely known from the onscreen credit where viewers heard the command, "Sit, Ubu, sit," then a bark.
Goldberg began his TV career in the 1970s as a writer for series including "The Bob Newhart Show," and was a producer of "Lou Grant."
In 1982 "Family Ties" premiered on NBC, introducing Michael J. Fox as a business-loving Young Republican son of left-wing baby boomers who were former hippies.
"Basically, those parents are me and Diana," Goldberg once said, referring to his wife, Diana Meehan, who survives him.
The series became a huge hit, making Fox a star and Goldberg an important behind-the-camera name.
During his career, Goldberg won two Emmy awards, two Golden Globes and a Peabody award.
70 Entries
Carson Loveless
April 19, 2024
Condolences to his family and friends
Marc Pasetsky
July 27, 2023
Sad to say I didn't know who you were however I loved watching Family Ties the tv series I learned you created, & read all the wondeful things about you just now Mr Goldberg! Sad to learn also you died soo young & from brain Cancer! you are sorely missed by so many that loved you, loved Family Ties too. May your Soul be @ peace for all of Eternity
Neil Howard
July 25, 2015
I remember Gary from Lafayette High School in Brooklyn, We were teammates on the basketball team
He was the nicest person you could ever know. I am sorry we did not keep in touch over the years
I was saddened when I learned of his passing and still am
Not a day passes when I don't think of him and his wonderful personality
May he rest in peace
My best wishes to his family
Neil Howard Liebowitz (Neil Howard since 1968)
How you can show support
Lisa Weiner
November 24, 2013
To Gary David Goldberg,
You did a wonderful job creating the sitcoms Family ties, and Spin City. My prayers go to you, your family, and friends. Lisa Weiner
Lisa Weiner
November 24, 2013
To Gary David Goldberg,
You did a wonderful job creating the sitcoms Family ties and Spin City. My prayers go your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Kathy Miller Pullman
October 12, 2013
Those of us who knew you, remember you with great fondness. You will always be the sweet young man I knew so long ago and was delighted to see again. You've left us a legacy that will live on while you find your peace.
Rich Goldfarb, Toby Dunn-Stark and Gary at H.S. Class Reunion
Toby Dunn-Stark
October 12, 2013
Gary, may your soul rest in peace. What a down to earth guy you were. Always with a big hug and a broad smile!
You were a gift! I will miss you!
Sandy Lieberman
September 23, 2013
Diane,Shana,&Cailin,
I just wanted to send my condolences to you for one of the most wonderful,heartwarming,devoted,caring, &loving people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, Gary. I feel honored that he had graced my life for so many years of cutting his hair. I did not know until last evening, watching the Emmys, of his passing. Being his hairdresser I can tell you the love he shared with you was like no other. he was always so proud of his family and felt so blessed to have each and everyone of you,,,I am so very sorry for your loss. Gary was one of the kindest most generous, in every way, people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Please except my heartfelt sympathy...Love, Sandy Lieberman
Connie Halkovich
September 23, 2013
God bless you, Gary David Goldberg! I absolutely loved the characters you created in the beloved TV show entitled 'Brooklyn Bridge'....I would LOVE to have a copy of the complete series...why? It reminds me of my years growing up with my own beloved grandmother & grandfather! What a loss for your beloved fans...and especially for your much loved real family! God created you to bring us all such love and joy in your works! Hugs and much love from Nana Halkovich
Mike Tosti
September 22, 2013
I had the the pleasure of Driving Gary and the family for 3 years I was in the Limo bus. and I drove alot of people in the industry but I never met anyone as nice As Gary and Diana they don't get any nicer then them.He will truly be missed.
Susan George
September 16, 2013
Dear Diana,
My sincere condolences
to you.
I will always cherish the
memory of hosting the 2 of
you in 2011 at my hotel
In Marblehead, Mass.
And my very special
signed book you so graciously
presented to me.
With Sadness,
Susan N. George.
James Syring
July 25, 2013
Dear Dr. Diana Meehan,
I had just finished Gary's book and wanted to sent him a note to thank him for writing it when I found out that he had recently passed away. Please accept my condolences. I had gotten the book to learn about sit-com writing but I learned so much more. His honesty and decency said to me that a good person can succeed in Hollywood. Aside from him being from Brooklyn, me from Queens, him Jewish, me Irish, I realized that we shared two things in common: We both loved comedy and we both married amazing, wonderful women. If you should ever pass through Denver, I'd be honored to treat you to a bagel. I have a very generous bagel allowance. Stay well.
Bill Halpin
July 20, 2013
I first met Gary at Bensonhurst's P.S.205 after-school basketball, 68th St & 20th Ave. He shot over me and drove past me with the sweetest left handed fade away backboard two pointers. I admired his grace and thoughtfulness then (in the middle 1950s), which he seems never to have lost. Reading his book confirms this. His work and life, like his game, remained smooth and remarkable.
Marilyn Zitner
July 10, 2013
I was a classmate and good friend of Gary's growing up in Bensonhurst --- his "female advisor". As I too wound up in the entertainment business, we remained in contact until very recently. One of my clients booked a role on my favorite show "Brooklyn Bridge". Gary even named one of the policemen on Brooklyn Bridge after my dad, David Phillips (who he knew well and was a fireman I last saw Gary at the Chelsea Piers all years reunion. He will always hold a very special place in my heart. Miss you Gary!
Philpott
July 2, 2013
To the family of Gary David Goldberg,I am sorry for your lost. I enjoyed family tie as many have may God be with you. Sincerly
Naijah
July 2, 2013
RIP
Ben Davis
July 2, 2013
Brilliant writer.. grew up watching tour shows.. may you rest in peace and enjoy ur friends/family with the Heavenly father.
Karen W
July 1, 2013
My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. I had the pleasure of working with Gary. He was a mensch
June 30, 2013
RIP to a great man in the Tv world!
f e
June 29, 2013
May you draw the comfort needed from the bible at Isa.41:9,10 ,13.
June 28, 2013
During the first few weeks its going to be really hard to get back to life routine but May you continue to be comforted by those you love including Almighty God...
Norm Schwartz
June 27, 2013
Your brilliant light will Always glow. From Lafayette High School to eternity.
Bonnie Mackie
June 26, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.The best work experience ever--Family Ties. Gary was a wonderful man--witty, caring and generous.He
will be missed by many.
S Harris
June 26, 2013
To the family & friends of Mr. Goldberg,you have my condolences! May you take comfort in Gods word atRevelation21:4 & Psalms37:29!
Reed
June 26, 2013
I am sorry to read about the passing of your love one, may the family find strength In God and friends, my condolences to all.
B.W
June 26, 2013
Remember the good times that you shared, and draw stregnth from them to help you through this time. Better times are ahead really SOON. PS 37:29
Tracy Edgar
June 26, 2013
Thank you for sharing your talent which brought me joy.
God bless your Family.
June 26, 2013
Very sorry for your loss. He was a creative inspiration.
Barbara
June 25, 2013
Thank you, Gary, for all that you gave us - especially Alex P. Keaton.
Linda Anna Maria Rest Castellano
June 25, 2013
Dear Diana,Shana&Cailin,I am so very sorry for your loss. Gary was such a beautiful person inside & out. My heart goes out to you all. Love,Linda
June 25, 2013
An incredible loss. RIP Mr. Goldberg
Rita Gleason
June 25, 2013
Dear Diana, Shana, Cailin, and Family,
On behalf of the Notre Dame High School, Belmont Community, I extend our condolences and prayerful support during this time of such deep sorrow and loss. May our good and gracious God surround you with His Peace and Consolation, and may your beloved Gary rest in eternal peace.
Scott Chamberland
June 25, 2013
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Ingrid
June 25, 2013
Sorry for your families loss.. May you gain comfort from Rev
21:3,4
June 25, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I know losing a loved one is hard to go through. May you draw close to God at this time.
Anderson
June 25, 2013
Such a talent. Sorry to hear about this loss.- Ps.65:2
James Willner
June 25, 2013
May the eternal light shine upon him.....
TinaMarie Palmer
June 25, 2013
My deepest sympathy to your family at this sad time. I would like to thank you for all your wonderful work, and thank you, his family for sharing him with us.
P. Wyatt
June 25, 2013
My heart felt sympathy goes out to Mr. Goldberg's family and many friends.
Family Ties and the Bob Newhart Show brought laughter and smiles to my life! His contribution to the world of TV is much appreciated.
In the Tanakh a thought provoking question was raised by Job: " If an abled- bodied man dies can he live again? .... You will call, and I myself will answer you. For the work of your hands you will have a yearning."
How comforting to know God's own feeling toward our precious dead loved one's. We can be confident in God's promises because, of his great love for Gary and countless other's.
May these words serve as comfort to all of you during this time of lost.
Jane Dowling
June 25, 2013
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Dwayne Bickham
June 25, 2013
in God's care rest in peace
David Lewis
June 25, 2013
RIP Mr. Goldberg.
I read somewhere that a good movie or TV show would make an audience either laugh or cry; but a great one would do both. Well, there is no doubt that Family Ties made viewers laugh and cry, often together and sometimes when least expected. Family Ties will always remain one of the great TV family shows of all time, along with All In The Family, Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, and M*A*S*H because it touched so many people in so many ways. Personally, your show helped me get through some very difficult times.
And oh, as a Canadian, thanks for sticking with Mike and allowing him to become the pride of our country then, as he continues to do so now.
It is so sadly ironic that the creator and star of such a lovable and memorable TV family would end up stricken with diseases that no one would wish upon their worst enemy, let alone a family member.
Lie down, UBU, lie down... and rest. Good dog.
Sheila
June 24, 2013
May God comfort his loved ones in the days ahead. Godspeed Gary.
Lisa Weiner
June 24, 2013
To David Goldberg,
You did a great job creating the sitcom Family ties which was my favorite sitcom back in the 80's. I will hearing you say at the end sit ubu sit good dog. My prayers are with you and your family. Lisa Weiner
PAUL IANNIZZOTTO
June 24, 2013
Paul IANNIZZOTTO LEADMAN FAMILY TIES
YOU WERE A GREAT PRODUCER AND FRIEND.YOU TREATED ALL WITH RESPECT.
GOD BLESS RIP
Sonya Buckman
June 24, 2013
My husband got to know him when they were all working on Spin City in the early 90's. He was a very generous man with everyone. In fact we had just had our son and as a Christmas gift to my husband who was his teamster driver gave us a top of the line home video camera. They were so expensive 20 years ago and we were so touched. Just a nice man. My prayers go out to his family.
June 24, 2013
My condolences to the family. May the God of peace strengthen you during this time of distress. E.D; Park Forest, IL.
michelle plakas-kaiser
June 24, 2013
rip
Mike R
June 24, 2013
You were a good friend and great to work with. You brought life and humor to Paul, Mike, Randall, Carter. I'll see you later and when I do remember "exact change only."
JoAnn
June 24, 2013
Goldberg family please accept my sincere condolences for your lost. Gary gave so much of himself to so many. The healing process in a long and difficult road. But it need not be traveled alone. May your faith in God and the comfort from friends and love ones strengthen you in the days ahead.
(2 Thessalonians 2:6-17)
S.W.
June 24, 2013
Truly heartfelt condolences to family and loved ones. May the God of all comfort be with you.
David
June 24, 2013
Loved Brooklyn Bridge.
June 24, 2013
To the Goldberg family: May you be surrounded by love at this very sorrowful time. One of our favorite shows that Gary created was Brooklyn Bridge. Gary was an outstanding talent and may he now rest in peace. An Admirer
June 24, 2013
Thanks for the great shows and the laughs and touching moments in the shows. Favorite line: The mayor of NY in Spin City calling Latinos..latinies. Who does that?! Hollywood call ill afford to lose such talent.
Linda K
June 24, 2013
My Favorite show of all times was Family Ties. Sorry for the loss of your loved one.
into a new journey rip`GaryDavidGoldBerg
Victoria&Andrew~:~ VZj
June 24, 2013
Sentiments of
'serene prayers
Our condolences
to a man with
kind sense of Humor..
thank you for the
tales of movie Drama
in a house
of eight is enough
sigh grin`*:*
"full house"
///FamilyTies//
Ron McLaety
June 24, 2013
We are heartbroken to hear of Gary's passing and send our deepest sympathy to Diana, their daughters and the rest of their family during this terrible time of loss. He was a great guy to work for and great, period. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him. Ron & Kate McLarty
Cheryl
June 24, 2013
Sorry for your lost. Gary will be missed by his fans. May the family find comfort in God's word the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16
Karin J.
June 24, 2013
"Sit Ubu sit." Loved your shows, Family Ties is one of my all time favorites. RIP...
J H
June 24, 2013
My sincere condolences to the Goldberg family. May the God of all comfort be with you during your grief.
E. Ahern
June 24, 2013
I have enjoyed all of Gary's creative shows and movies. Sorry for your loss.
Mary Meredith
June 24, 2013
RIP Mr. Goldberg..................
June 24, 2013
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
June 24, 2013
May the family enjoy the warmth of God's love at this time."Like a man whom his own mother keeps comforting,so I myself shall keep comforting you people."ish 66:13....mnc
June 24, 2013
This man had a rare gift. "Brooklyn Bridge" was a wonderful series.
June 24, 2013
I've enjoyed many of the shows/movies produced by Gary Goldberg. I'm sorry for his loss. The entertainment world has lost a talented man. Eccl. 9:11. My condolences go out to the family, friends and all who shared in the enjoyment of his productions. May God grant you the strength you need to be able to cope with your loss.
T
June 24, 2013
It is never easy losing a loved one however our Creator can provide us the strength and courage needed to cope with our loss. 1 Corinthians 1:3
Showing 1 - 70 of 70 results
Make a Donation
in Gary Goldberg's name
How to support Gary's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gary Goldberg's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored