James Gregory Vernon "Greg" Gooch

1946 - 2025

James Gregory Vernon "Greg" Gooch, 79, of Tacoma, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, in University Place, Washington.

Born on September 21, 1946, Greg proudly served in the U.S. Army, completing tours in Germany from 1967 to 1969 and in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. For his service in Vietnam, he was awarded the Bronze Star. He continued his military career with distinction and retired from the Army Reserve in 1995 as a Lieutenant Colonel after nearly three decades of service.

In his civilian career, Greg worked for CIBA-Geigy Pharmaceuticals and Bristol-Myers, where he earned recognition for his leadership and professional excellence. In retirement, he remained deeply engaged in his community, contributing to numerous boards and veterans' organizations throughout University Place and Pierce County.

Greg is remembered with love by his "Sweetheart," Diana Cook; his sister Janet Laterell; brother Roger Gooch; daughter Lennis Johansen; granddaughters Brielle and Charlise Johansen; adopted son Nicholas Cook; and grandsons Rowan Cook and Blaize Gooch.

A Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St, Kent, WA 98042, on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m.

Following the service, a Celebration of Life will take place at Ben Dews Clubhouse Grill, 6501 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406, at 11:30 a.m., where friends and family will gather to share memories and honor Greg's enduring legacy.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." –.

Matthew 25:23.