Ira A. Goetsch, age 94, of Gladstone, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, early Wednesday morning, July 27, 2022 at his home.
Ira was born November 22, 1927, in Glenview, IL, the son of Ferdinand J. and Clara (Schwark) Goetsch. He enlisted into the United States Army following High School. Upon his honorable discharge Ira started his lifelong career with Bell and Gossett in Morton Grove, IL. He briefly worked as a Superintendent with Marble Arms in Gladstone, but returned back to Illinois with Bell and Gossett until his retirement.
Ira was united in marriage to Shirley Dricker on April 23, 1948 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Glenview, IL and together they raised two children.
After Ira retired, the couple relocated to Delta County in 1983. They were both active members of the First Lutheran Church in Gladstone.
Ira was involved in various committees and was an usher.
Ira spent many years working at Skradski Funeral Home working visitations, funerals and coordinating transportation.
He was also a member of the Rapid River American legion Post 301. He enjoyed photography, planes, gardening and taking care of his yard.
Ira loved his family and was a very proud Grandpa and Great Grandpa.
Ira is survived by:
Daughter: Debbie (George) Lang of Wheeling, IL
7 Grandchildren: Marc (Kristina) Lang, Aaron Lang, Sam Goetsch, Clara Goetsch, Chloe Goetsch, Anna Goetsch and Catherine DeMore.
2 Great Grandchildren: Hazel and Landon
In addition to his Parents and Wife, Ira is preceded in death by:
Son: Steven Goetsch
Family will receive friends on Friday, August 5, from 2:00 until 4:00 PM at the First Lutheran Church in Gladstone. Military Honors will be presented at 4:00 PM by the Rapid River American Legion Post 301. Funeral services honoring Ira will take place at 4:15 PM at the First Lutheran Church with Pastor Elisabeth Daniels officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. Entombment will take place in Arlington Heights, IL. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Church or U.P Honor Flight. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Goetsch family.
Nancy Ramirez - Glenview, Illinois
Prayers and hugs to Debbie and George, loved your Dad,even though I didn’t see him much. He is in a better spot back with Mom and now you have a beautiful guarding angel to watch over you. THINKING OF YOU
Nancy and Gabe
Corey Johnston - Waukegan , IL
Our deepest condolences on the loss of your loving father and grandfather. May the many wonderful memories you share bring a smile to your face and laughter to your hearts. Prayers for comfort and healing at this difficult time.
Sue Creadon - Highland Park, IL
I met Steven Goetsch at Concordia College. I sang in the tour choir and we sang at Ira’s and Shirley ‘s church in Northbrook. They were a hoot. I was there without Steve and got to know them very well. Steve and I drive out to the cabin and spent Christmas with them. Steve and I reconnected when Steve got his first “smartphone”. He sold everything and moved to be with me. We then reconnected with Steve’s Dad and travelled up to Gladstone almost every month. He drove us around and we saw every lake and ate at restaurants that he remembered. Steve and I sat in the back seat and kept looking at the speedometer. We saw every waterfall! I can still hear his laugh. I miss him. I called him Dad and I know he loved me.
Kim Weyers - Rhinelander , WI
My dad and mom, Cliff and Karen Zettler, my brother and I loved spending summer vacations with Ira and Shirley. Ira would always have wonderful adventures planned for us. The love and fun we shared with them through the years meant more than we can ever express ❤. Lots of love and prayers for the family.