Barbara Goff

Barbara Ann Goff

Barbara died September 24, 2013, in the home of her loving family. She was born June 26, 1921, in Berkeley, CA, the daughter of Raymond Bush and Ethel Wolters. She spent her early childhood in the Bay Area and Southern California, returning with her family to Berkeley in time to attend Berkeley High School and the University of California. At the University she majored in Political Science, which was the beginning of a life-long interest in national and world affairs. Barbara joined the Alpha Delta Pi sorority, and took an active part in student affairs. In her senior year she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and represented her graduating class of 1943 as Commencement speaker.

While at the University, Barbara met Gordon Goff, who became her lifelong partner. Barbara's life was filled with her children's activities, her continuing education, friends, and church activities. Barbara was an avid reader, and always kept abreast of national and world news, stock market, and politics.

She and Gordon, enthusiastic gardeners, were especially fond of raising camellias, and for many years exhibited and judged prize blooms at the many northern California camellia shows. A second love of theirs was the joy of travel. Over the years they had the deep pleasure of visiting many countries throughout the world.

Above all, Barbara's greatest joy came with the love that flowed in her family, and with the hopes and plans for the future each member experienced. Her beloved husband died in March 2009, a few days after their 65th anniversary. She leaves her son, Dr. Don Goff (Lisa) of New York City, her daughter Margi Ely (Mike) of Walnut Creek, and her beloved grandchildren Amelia and Charlotte Goff, and Sean and Claire Ely, and her son-in-law Rocco Crisalli of Aptos. Her daughter Laurie Crisalli, predeceased her as did her sister Virginia Cassens. Barbara spent her last full year enveloped in the love and care of Margi and Mike in their Walnut Creek home. There she knew the joy of family and the closeness of loving friends.

The memorial service will be held Friday, October 11, at 10 am at the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, in the little chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northern Calif. Camellia Society, c/o Don Bergamini, 2023 Huntridge Court, Martinez, CA 94553, or the Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church foundation.