Alfred Goebel's Obituary
Alfred Walter Goebel, age 88, passed away on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He had been a resident of Oak Hammock at the University of Florida in Gainesville for the past 15 years. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Al spent most of his adult life in Columbus, Ohio as a devoted husband, loving father, devout Christian, and successful business leader. Warm, gregarious, principled, and strong-willed, Al left a lasting legacy on the world around him.
Al was born on August 24, 1937, to Alfred and Wanda Goebel; his father was a German immigrant, and Al grew up as a proud first-generation American. Al attended Detroit Lutheran High School, where he developed the deep Christian faith that would guide him throughout his life. He went on to earn a business degree from Wayne State University. On August 25, 1962, Al married his beloved wife, Irene Scholl - herself a first-generation American with German immigrant parents.
After graduation, he began a long and dedicated career in grocery store operations. He spent 40 years with the Kroger Company, serving in both Detroit, Michigan and Columbus, Ohio. Known for his integrity, high standards, and desire to mentor future leaders, Al was respected by colleagues and friends alike.
Faith and service were central to Al’s life. A devoted Lutheran, he served in multiple church leadership roles, including President of the congregation. He taught both his children, Eric and Heidi, in their catechism classes, and he volunteered for many years with Meals on Wheels and in adult literacy programs, living out his belief in quietly helping others.
Al’s love for music began early. He learned to play the accordion as a young boy and performed at school events, family gatherings, and local German picnics. During college, he played in a band and performed at weddings throughout the year. While raising his children, the accordion spent some time at rest, but music remained part of his spirit.
Al loved the outdoors and the thrill of trying new things. He enjoyed both water skiing and snow skiing and delighted in teaching his children these skills. A lifelong learner, he truly embodied the C.S. Lewis quote that hung on the bulletin board in his office: “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” Other interests that he developed in retirement were flying, golf, travel, and scuba diving.
When golf and scuba diving were no longer possible, Al returned to his accordion with renewed energy. He became a source of joy and entertainment at Oak Hammock, sharing music with his fellow residents, including those in the skilled nursing unit. His enthusiasm inspired others to join him, and together they formed a band aptly named “The Rockers.”
Al cherished time with family and friends, often sharing stories over a good beer. Above all, Al was a devoted family man—the greatest supporter of his children and grandchildren. He listened deeply, encouraged their interests, and taught them that with hard work and dedication, anything was possible.
Al will be profoundly missed by all who were blessed to know him. He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Wanda Goebel, and his brother, Richard Goebel. He is survived by his wife Irene, son Eric (Liz) Goebel, daughter Heidi (Brodie) Bauders, and grandchildren Emily Goebel, Jack Goebel, Grace Bauders, and Andrew Bauders.
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