Richard Victor Goss

1949 - 2025

Richard Victor Goss

August 17, 1949 - August 27, 2025

Richard Victor Goss, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, passed away at home on August 27th, 2025, having recently celebrated his 76th birthday. He left this world quickly and naturally, in the comfort of the place he loved most.

Born in Scottsbluff on August 17th, 1949, he grew up on his family's farm in Bayard with his father Vic, mother Betty, and brothers Jim and Steve. The family moved to Mitchell, Nebraska in 1965, where Richard met his high-school sweetheart, wife, and lifelong partner Laura (Kilstrup) Goss. They were married on August 14, 1971, and moved to their home outside of Scottsbluff in 1976, where they lived together for the rest of Richard's life.

Richard was a man who built his life on kindness and love. He found joy in giving his time and energy to friends, animals, and especially to children. Richard made everyone feel welcome, important, and loved. In addition to playing a major paternal role in the lives of his nephew Dane Kilstrup, who spent so many childhood summers staying with Richard and Laurie, and his daughter Kylee Brill who lived with Richard and Laurie for 12 years, there were many, many children through the decades who looked to Richard for fatherly and grandfatherly love and support. Richard and Laurie's love for life and children magnetically drew people to them, and together their warmth and unconditional love changed so many lives for the better.

Richard and Laurie shared one son, Derrick Goss, for whom Richard was a wonderful father. He had many years of practice parenting so many other children that, as he would say, he "worked out the kinks" by the time Derrick finally came around in 1995. In addition to being a protector, a teacher, and coach, Richard was also Derrick's best friend and buddy. From tee-ball practices and wood-shop projects to riverside bike rides, morning bagel sandwiches, and countless Saturdays spent cheering at speech meets, Richard made time with his son his top priority. Derrick was blessed with a father who gave generously of himself every single day, and for whom so many people hold cherished memories.

Richard's talents extended beyond his role as a family man; he was also a talented photographer, artist, and businessman. He captured beautiful landscapes and his favorite subject, like many local photographers, was the Scotts Bluff Monument. He pursued a career in technical drafting, which also fulfilled his artistic nature. After graduating from Mitchell High School in 1968, he attended Sidney Vocational School and earned his associates degree in technical drafting. He worked for over 25 years for KN Energy as a draftsman, before changing careers and opening Performance Automotive, the auto parts store that he owned and operated until 2009. After that, he entered partial retirement to spend more time with his family, and worked with Laura and Derrick at Masek Distributing until his full retirement in 2023.

Throughout his life, Richard's many hobbies reflected his adventurous and generous spirit. He played the guitar and accordion for many years. He loved to go to the mountains and explore on snowmobiles, often venturing a little too far off trail. He enjoyed camping and traveling in the Midwest. He delighted in taking his grandchildren fishing at the local sand pits. Certainly, his most favorite hobby, a true passion, was motorcycling. He loved riding, touring, and motorcycle camping. He took many trips to Sturgis to create lasting memories with family. He was especially proud of his Kawasaki Voyager. When his son was born, he gave up motorcycling out of an abundance of caution but returned to his passion when his son made it to High School. He eventually became a Harley Davidson guy, and spent every possible sunny day out on the bike putting on endless miles around the Valley feeling joyful and free.

He was preceded in death by his father, Vic; his mother, Betty; and his older brother, Jim. He is survived by his wife, Laura; son, Derrick and his wife Theresa; brother Steve; nephew, Dane and his wife Jennifer; daughter, Kylee; and grandchildren, Brett and Brylee; and a wide circle of friends and extended family. We and our families, as well as so many others that have connected with Richard throughout his life, will miss him dearly, and laugh as we remember the countless good times he gave us.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 16th at 2 p.m., at Dugan-Kramer Funeral Home. We invite all to come and remember Richard with tears, stories, laughter, and food as we celebrate the remarkable life of a man who gave so much. For those unable to attend, we ask that you honor Richard by stepping outside to feed the birds, breathe in the fresh air, and take a quiet moment to appreciate the beauty and gift of life, as Richard so often did. Forever our father, friend, and guide; a heart so generous, a life so full. We love you.

Please visit www.DuganKramer.com to leave condolences and share photo memories.

Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel

3201 Ave B, Scottsbluff, NE 69361