George T. Goike

George T. Goike, a beloved resident of Bruce Township, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, in Clinton Township, Michigan, just two days shy of his 94th birthday. Born on August 8, 1930, in Warren Township, Michigan, George was the cherished son of the late Stephen and Irene (née Dobbelstine) Goike.
George was a man of many passions and talents. He found immense joy in gardening and nurturing flowers, and he was an avid bowler. A dedicated sports fan, he faithfully supported the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings, and he loved watching boxing matches.
A proud U.S. Army veteran, George served his country honorably during the Korean War. His post-military career was marked by a remarkable 38-year tenure at White Chapel Memorial Cemetery in Troy, Michigan. Starting in burials, George's dedication and hard work saw him rise to the position of Assistant Superintendent, giving many hours of compassion and care for the burial of countless families in the Metro Detroit area. He retired in June 1992.
George was a devout and former St. Clement Catholic Church member in Center Line. He was active in the Dad's Club, taught catechism, and sang in the choir. His love for sports extended to coaching, where he made a positive impact as a Little League Baseball Coach and a Girls Softball Coach for White Chapel Cemetery.
He was the loving husband of the late Ann Goike (née Gietzen). George's legacy lives on through his children, George Jr. (Carol) Goike and Susan (Lenny) Szwejk; his grandchildren, Lindsey (Chris) Leja, Anna (Eric Brunter) Goike, Spencer (Gina) Szwejk, and Daniel Goike; and his great-grandchildren, Clara Leja and one great-granddaughter on the way. George is also survived by his sister, Maggie Goike, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Joe, August, Ed, Alex, Mike, Anthony, William, and Patrick Goike, Elizabeth Elwart, and Martha Beste.
Above all, George treasured spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. His love, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Family and friends will be gathering for a celebration of George's life with a visitation at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 2-8 pm with a rosary at 5 pm.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 10 am from St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church 343 S. Main Street, Romeo, family and friends will gather for a visitation from 9:30 am until the time of mass.
Internment at White Chapel Memorial Cemetery Troy, Michigan.
In honor and memory of George Goike donations to Capuchins 1820 Mt. Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207 www.thecapuchins.org