Search by Name

Search by Name

Ethan Goble Obituary


  
ETHAN A. GOBLE  June 5, 1983 - September 22, 2011  
Ethan A. Goble passed away while traveling on business in the Republic of China (Taiwan). Surviving are his parents, C. Jeffrey and Bonnie McGill Goble; brothers Liam N. and Galen C. Goble; grandmother, Ann McGill, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Ethan became an Eagle Scout in Boy Scout Troop 203, Hershey, PA in 1999. He graduated from Hershey High School in 2002 and earned a B.A. degree in political science from Washington & Jefferson College, Washington, PA. Ethan received a Master of International Affairs Degree (Security and Intelligence Studies) in 2008 from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, University of Pittsburgh. After graduation, Ethan began work as a cyber analyst for Target Corporation at the National Cyber-Forensics & Training Alliance in Pittsburgh, PA. In 2010, he began work as an intelligence analyst for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Honolulu, HI. Ethan traveled extensively while with the DIA, and at the time of his passing was proudly serving his nation. Ethan was a lifelong member of the Christian Science Church. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 1, at 2 p.m., at Derry Presbyterian Church, 248 East Derry Road, Hershey, PA. In lieu of flowers the family prefer contributions be made to the Ethan A. Goble Fund, Boy Scout Troop 203 c/o First United Methodist Church of Hershey, 64 West Chocolate Avenue, Hershey, PA 17033, or the Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Sep. 28, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Ethan Goble

Not sure what to say?





Mel Decima

October 27, 2011

Dear Jeff, Bonnie and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I just learned of Ethan's passing.I worked with Ethan at Bread's N Cheese's along time ago, he was also so wonderful to work with, he always had a smile on his face. You will be in my thoughts and prayers, God Bless,

Heather Eaves

October 11, 2011

I worked with Ethan for four years at W&J in admissions. Ethan was a kind and caring individual who will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Goble family.

October 10, 2011

Although I only knew Ethan for a short time, it didn't take long for his spirit of adventure and a fun-loving part of his personality to shine. I pray that his life will always be remembered by the smiles that he shared and created. As a friend and colleague he met while on an adventure abroad, you have my deepest condolences for your loss.

Jen Edmiston

October 6, 2011

I was so sorry to hear about Ethan's passing. May you be at peace knowing that he lived a wonderful life. Your family will be in my prayers during this difficult time.

Iris (Mallet) Harlan

October 5, 2011

Bonnie,
I am so very sorry to hear about the death of your son Ethan. I am thinking of you with love.

Katie Goehring

October 4, 2011

Ethan was a genuinely nice person, friendly and smart and he will certainly be missed. God Bless.

Dianne Dusman

October 4, 2011

To the Goble family, I was sad to hear the news and to miss the memorial service on Saturday, but the poem chosen for the service program that Jim brought home says it all in the best words possible. He will always be with you, in unbroken continuity and all is well.

October 3, 2011

Bonnie and Jeff,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and our hearts go out to you and your family. We have fond memories of times spent together in scouting with our families. He was a very special young man.

Steve, Kim King and family

John Snyder

October 2, 2011

To the Goble family: My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Ethan was a special young man when I knew him, and I'm sure that he only grew more special as he matured. May you all find comfort in your memories, and peace in your hearts.

Walter Lamar

October 2, 2011

Dear Jeff, Bonnie and family: My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you. As I read the words of praise for Ethan thoughtfully written by friends, colleagues and family I am deeply impressed by the lives touched. Clearly he was a special young man. I pray the light of Ethan's memory will ease your pain. Condolences...

October 2, 2011

Dear Bonnie and Jeff, We did not have the privilege of knowing Ethan, but our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for your loss. Bob and Barb(Cully)Williams Pittsburgh,PA

Justine Newcomb

September 30, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know Ethan is in Heaven with the Father and am glad to know he was living his life's dream serving his country.

Missy [Feaster] Roode

September 30, 2011

To the Goble family - Ethan was one of the genuinely kindest people I have ever known: quick to offer support and friendship to anyone, even in high school where so few people show such maturity and caring. I pray that the support of all his friends and the peace of faith will lessen your sorrow, and that you will always be proud of the exceptional individual Ethan was. We are honored to have known him.

Margot Misas

September 30, 2011

To the Goble Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Ethan passing. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Lori Serratelli

September 30, 2011

Dear Jeff, Bonnie and family,

Seeing Ethan's photo reminded me that I did have the chance to meet him through the Black Diamond fencing club when my son Andy was a member. We are so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful young man, son and brother. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Lori Serratelli, Steve, Andy and Josh Schiffman

Jacqueline

September 29, 2011

To Ethan's family- I am glad to have known Ethan and my heart goes out to you during this time. May you find peace through your memories of his life.

Christine Bielenda

September 29, 2011

To the Goble Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Ethan's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Carol Dundorf

September 29, 2011

Dear Goble Family,
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Ethan, but it also brought back many wonderful memories of him as a student. I enjoyed his sense of humor as we would joke around in class. I remember his smile and friendliness to others. I will pray for strength, meaning and resolution for your family. I know that Ethan will always be a student that brings me cherished memories.

Martin Staniland

September 29, 2011

On behalf of all Ethan's friends among students still at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, University of Pittsburgh, and his instructors, I want to convey to his family our shock and sorrow at the news of his death. During his work here, he was always enthusiastic, cheerful and helpful to others. He was regarded with respect by all with whom he was in contact, including Phil Williams, the director of the Ridgway Center for International Security Studies. We are proud to have been associated with Ethan and share the sense of loss felt by his family and his many friends. I want to extend my deepest personal sympathy to his parents.
Martin Staniland. Director, International Affairs division, GSPIA

Donna Master

September 29, 2011

Dear Bonnie and Jeff,
There are no words to express how sad we are about Ethan's passing. He was the sweetest, kindest friend that Mikey ever had, and he was always full of fun. It makes us smile to know that the little guy who headed up the "spy" club on the Tatem playground grew up to be such an accomplished young man -working at what he loved to do while serving his country. Our hearts go out to you, Liam, Galen and your extended family. We are blessed to have known Ethan and thankful for the years of memories that bind us together.

Becky and Gene Lengerich

September 28, 2011

Bonnie, Jeff, Galen and Liam,
This is such hard news. I remember hearing stories of Ethan while watching our boys run their races, not that long ago. Ethan surely accomplished a great deal in a short time. May God grant you increasing peace with each new day.

Nicole C.

September 28, 2011

Mr. and Mrs. Goble, Liam & Galen, while I did not know Ethan very long, his loss will most certainly be felt deeply. I sought Ethan out while working on a research project and we just hit it off right away sharing a very similar background and our mutual love for Hawaii. As we discussed this project , I quickly realized his passion and commitment were just what we needed. It seemed Ethan and I were both visionaries and I asked him to fly out to talk with our diverse group of folks thinking he was the key to advance this complex project along. Ethan was ready to accept this challenge and his eagerness to make a difference where many others had failed before him certainly captured our attention. We spent a few short days in Florida and we were off to a great start in collaborating. While he was just starting out his career and I felt the need to mentor him as he reminded me so much of myself during my first year. Ethan is the epitome of professionalism and dedication in that short time, he certainly made a lasting impression on me earning my respect. I dont think I will ever forget the way he lit up a room and inspired others. What a shining star and while its little consolation to you all I know, I really think its fitting that he will be remembered by us as someone who was comitted to serving others. Ethan was ready to change the world and in many ways I think Ethan already has. I know he will live on in our memories, and in others -- Ethan lit a flame in all of us. So, while I certainly did'nt have the pleasure of knowing him long, it seems I knew him long enough to know sometimes that the best of friends inspire us to be better than we are. I regret I don't know any of the family...but I plan on making the trek for his service - not to share in sorrow but to celebrate his life and the difference this young man made in the lives of so many and for his country. (A Colleague and Friend.)

September 28, 2011

Mr. and Mrs. Goble, Liam & Galen, while I did not know Ethan very long, his loss will most certainly be felt deeply. I sought Ethan out while working on a research project and we just hit it off right away sharing a very similar background and our mutual love for Hawaii. As we discussed this project , I quickly realized his passion and commitment were just what we needed. It seemed Ethan and I were both visionaries and I asked him to fly out to talk with our diverse group of folks thinking he was the key to advance this complex project along. Ethan was ready to accept this challenge and his eagerness to make a difference where many others had failed before him certainly captured our attention. We spent a few short days in Florida and we were off to a great start in collaborating. While he was just starting out his career and I felt the need to mentor him as he reminded me so much of myself during my first year. Ethan is the epitome of professionalism and dedication in that short time, he certainly made a lasting impression on me earning my respect. I dont think I will ever forget the way he lit up a room and inspired others. What a shining star and while its little consolation to you all I know, I really think its fitting that he will be remembered by us as someone who was comitted to serving others. Ethan was ready to change the world and in many ways I think Ethan already has. I know he will live on in our memories, and in others -- Ethan lit a flame in all of us. So, while I certainly did'nt have the pleasure of knowing him long, it seems I knew him long enough to know sometimes that the best of friends inspire us to be better than we are. I regret I don't know any of the family...but I plan on making the trek for his service - not to share in sorrow but to celebrate his life and the difference this young man made in the lives of so many and for his country. (A Colleague and Friend.)

Cyndi Musgrave

September 28, 2011

Mr. & Mrs. Goble, Liam & Galen, My sincerest sympathies to you & all your family. I work in the Admission Office at W&J, worked with Ethan during his 4 yrs., actually hired him at the job fair his freshman year. He has a special place in my heart, and I have so many wonderful memories. I feel like I know his wonderful dad, mom, and brothers....and I remember when Barb brought Gracie into your family...she must be so grown-up...she was a sparkle in Ethan's eyes. You are in my thoughts & prayers. May God bring you comfort in your cherished memories, and strength in the days to come. Love, Cyndi Musgrave

Paul Tillson

September 28, 2011

I never had the pleasure of knowing you, however I know your mother and she is about as nice as people can get. Thank you for your service to our country. You served without fame and praise and still demonstrated faithfulness. What a wonderful thing to do.

David J

September 28, 2011

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Goble, Liam & Galen,

I am so sorry to hear of Ethan’s passing. I had the opportunity to work with Ethan during an internship in PGH after GSPIA, then when he was with Target Corporation in PGH, and also when he worked with DIA. He was awesome to work with and I am proud to have called him a friend. He will be missed greatly.

Michael Sealy

September 28, 2011

I am so terribly sad to hear of Ethan's passing. I was a professor of his at Pitt/GSPIA and spent many hours helping him find this job - and he was so thrilled to obtain it. What a great loss to you and to our Country. I'm proud to have known him.

Diane Noto

September 27, 2011

Bonnie and Jeff I was shocked to hear about the passing of Ethan. What an intelligent young man. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know Ethan, Liam and Galen. Please find peace in believing that God now holds him in the palm of His hand. Diane Noto

Charlotte Reemts

September 27, 2011

We are so sorry. Elaine had kept us updated on all of Ethan's activities and it sounded like he really enjoyed his work. Our whole church family in Texas is praying for you.

Jyl Rittman

September 27, 2011

We loved Ethan. He was family. In our eyes, he "hung the moon".

With much love,

Jyl Mark, and Whitney Rittman

Liz and Rob Milner

September 27, 2011

Oh, Bonnie and Jeff, Liam, and Galen, we were devastated to hear about Ethan. Too soon, way too soon. What a talented and accomplished young man, as are his brothers. We send you our thoughts and prayers and wish you peace. The Milner family: Liz and Rob, West Boylston, MA; Rebecca,Tokyo,Japan; Julian, England, UK

Vickie Miller

September 27, 2011

Bonnie I light a candle for your family as it reminds me of when you came and read to my class. Now I light the candle in memory of Ethan. May your memories comfort you and know that Ethan did make a bright spot in a sometimes dark world.

Danielle Massarini

September 27, 2011

I had the pleasure of meeting Ethan through work as a fellow China hand. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

September 27, 2011

Bonnie, Jeff, Liam, Gayland and family: Elaine and I were very saddened to learn of Ethan's passing. However, in another sense, we were pleased to know how much he accomplished in a relatively short time. He enjoyed his family, excelled in academia, travelled extensively, and met with success in obtaining a very challenging professional position with the U.S. Government in Hawaii. He has made his mark and his legacy will be positive and lasting. You have our deepest and profound condolences. Elaine & Don Patterson, Absecon, NJ

Dawn Templeton

September 27, 2011

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Goble, Liam & Galen,

I'm so sorry to hear of Ethan's passing. May God comfort you through your time of sorrow. May He hold you in the palm of His hand. May the memories you have of times with Ethan bring a smile to your face and to your heart.
God be with you,

September 27, 2011

I was so saddened to hear of Ethan's passing. Nathan was a sixth grade student of mine and I fondly remember his great smile and his kindness. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May the support of family and friends help you through this most difficult time.
In remembrance,
Jan Szeerba (sixth grade teacher)

September 27, 2011

So saddened to hear of this. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
-Greg Woodbridge, Harrisburg, PA

Nancy Shotland

September 27, 2011

Bonnie, Jeff, Liam and Gayland,
Ethan was a wonderful inspiration and role model on how to live life to the fullest and grasp all that the world has to offer. He will be sorely missed by all. We hold you in our love and prayers.
Nancy and Bruce Shotland

Robert Adkins

September 27, 2011

I was proud to call Ethan both a fellow alum of W&J and a friend. He will be greatly missed. I will keep Ethan and you in the thoughts and prayers of my family in this difficult time. - Bob Adkins (W&J)

Judy & Ron Buxton

September 27, 2011

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Dennis & Jill Habig

September 27, 2011

Dear Bonnie and Jeff, we are so sorry to hear of Ethan's passing. We will be praying for your family and strength for the days ahead. May God wrap His loving arms around you and comfort you during this most difficult time.

Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results

Make a Donation
in Ethan Goble's name

Memorial Events
for Ethan Goble

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Ethan's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Ethan Goble's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more