Rochelle

Daniel D. Goff, age 76, passed away peacefully at his home in Rochelle, Illinois on Saturday, September 23, 2023.  Dan was born on April 21, 1947 to James and Maida (Le Mar) Goff in Rochelle, IL.  On May 20, 1967, he married Karen Espe at Calvary Lutheran Church, rural Lee, IL.

Dan proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 - 1969 spending most of his time aboard the USS Camden, a fast combat support ship, off the coast of Viet Nam.  He often talked about how much he enjoyed serving his country.

In 1972, Dan began his construction company.  He built 91 homes in Ogle, DeKalb and Lee counties, plus home additions and remodeling projects.  He was a hard worker and loved being his own boss.  His sons spent many hours working with their dad and learned valuable carpentry skills along with life lessons.  Because of illness, Dan retired in 2021.

Dan enjoyed his 27 cruising vacations with Karen and their trips to Arizona for White Sox Spring Training games.  He enjoyed fishing and watching TV.  He seldom missed a Sox game on TV although some games were interrupted with a nap.  For many years, Dan spent early mornings at the "coffee shop" meeting with friends.

Dan loved spending time with his family. He was very proud of his sons and daughters-in-law. "Papa" always looked forward to seeing his grandchildren whether in person or on FaceTime.

Dan is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karen, two sons: Scot (Michele) Goff of Johns Creek, GA and Michael (Carrie) Goff of Arlington Heights, IL; and two grandchildren: Caitlin Elizabeth and William Daniel of Arlington Heights. Also surviving is his brother, David (Lisa) Goff of Rockford, IL.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister in infancy.

Dan's motto in life was reflected in the song, "My Way" sung by Frank Sinatra.  "Let the record show I took all the blows and did it MY WAY!"

Per Dan's wishes, no public service will be held.  His family will celebrate his life at a later date.  Cremation care has been provided by the Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle.  Memorials may be made in Dan's memory to K9's for Warriors or Serenity Hospice and Home in care of Unger-Horner Funeral Home.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.