David Raymond Goebel, Sr., age 79, of Ogallala, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at home on November 4, 2023.
David was born May 20, 1944, at Ogallala, Nebraska, to Paul and Rachelle (Fischer) Goebel. He attended Ogallala High School before entering the U.S. Navy in 1962. David proudly served his country with VAQ138, remaining active in the reserves following his honorable discharge. It was during his time in the Navy that he met his beloved wife, Carol Ann Comstock. The two were married on July 22, 1967, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Their union was blessed with two children: David Jr and Shelly.
After settling in Oak Harbor, Washington, due to his Navy career, David and his family made their home in Ogallala in November of 1980. David did work of all kinds in various places, including Wendy's, before working at GasNGo. For 26 years, David was a familiar and friendly face at the convenience store, where his gift of gab and ready smile made him a friend to all.
David was known for his humor, and he delighted in telling Navy stories, sharing jokes, and playing the occasional prank. During his Navy days, he was often affectionately called 'George' after the comedian George Goble.
David had a generous heart that led him to give seemingly unceasingly to those in need. His experience in the Navy exposed him to the great poverty in the world, and he was never the same after that. His dedication to organizations like St. Jude Children's Hospital, Food for the Poor, and Covenant House was a testament to his love for the needy.
David is survived by his wife, Carol, of Ogallala; children, Shelly Goebel (Darrin Kilpatrick) and David Goebel Jr., both of Ogallala; grandchildren, Kirk Lunbery Jr., Sarah Lunbery, and Isaiah Goebel; and great-granddaughter, Zerah Fratis; sister, Sandra Frame of Julesburg; brother, Joseph Goebel of Las Vegas, NV; along with many other relatives and cherished friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Paul Jackson Goebel.
Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of David. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com.
Private services will be held, with interment to follow at the Fort McPherson National Cemetery at Maxwell, Nebraska.
Visitation will be held on Thursday November 9th, from 2 PM until 6 PM, at Prairie Hills Funeral Home in Ogallala.
Prairie Hills Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.