Bradley David Golden, a visionary entrepreneur and financial strategist, passed away just days shy of his 68th birthday due to complications from thyroid surgery. A dedicated husband, father, and leader, Brad's impact reached far beyond his private life-his work shaped the defense and maritime technology industry.
As co-founder, CEO and CFO of WR Systems, a company he established alongside Brian Addison and Ray Yu, Brad played a pivotal role in driving innovation within defense contracting. Under his financial leadership, WR Systems secured key Department of Defense naval-based contracts, successfully navigated complex government re-competes, and maintained a reputation for excellence in maritime technology solutions. Though the nature of the industry brought its share of challenges, Brad remained steadfast, guiding his company through strategic expansions and ensuring WR Systems remained at the forefront of technological advancement. His leadership extended beyond business-he fostered a professional culture of camaraderie, marked by memorable company outings, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to providing for employees and their families.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Lexington, Brad demonstrated an early fascination with technology and finance. Alongside his childhood friend Jeff Moskowitz, he explored programming in Digital Equipment Corporation computer lab, sparking a passion that defined his career. He later earned a bachelor's degree in Business Finance with a minor in Economics from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. His fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha, played a formative role in his social and professional development, eventually leading to lifelong friendships and business collaborations.
Beyond his professional success, Brad was deeply rooted in family traditions, particularly his love for boating. From childhood vacations at Lake Winnipesaukee to captaining his Monterey 320 on extended journeys through the Erie Canal, Lake Seneca, Hudson River, the Delmarva Coast, and the International Coastal waterway the water was his sanctuary. Many years we would spend relaxing for days at The Tides Inn, Irvington, VA even bringing his Mom with us one year.
Brad is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Peggy White Golden; his son, Steven Kyle Golden; his brother, William Alan Golden; and his nieces and nephews, Justin, Jack, Rachel, Bella, Brooke, and Tori Golden. He is preceded in death by his father, Jack Sheldon Golden; mother, Binna Louise Golden; and youngest brother, Robert Eric Golden. Brad cherished his daily walks with Steven, and family pets Lucky and Byron, all lost and missing his companionship.
A memorial service is to be held at Fairfax Park Memorial on Thursday from 4:00–8:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on Friday, April 18, at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at 11:00 AM, with a reception in the main dining room from 12:00–2:00 PM.
In Lieu of flowers a donation to the
American Cancer Society in the fight for a world without cancer.
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