OREGON — Charles "Skip" Gooch passed away on 5/4/23 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

He is survived by his wife, Jan Gooch, sister Susan Edgar, his children Renee Gooch, Chad Gooch (Melissa), Jennifer Gooch, stepchildren Brian Symons, Lori Haenitsch (Josh), grandchildren Gabe and Elena Gooch, step-grandchildren Eric (Cara) and Rachel Symons, Austin Haenitsch, step-great-granddaughter Adeline Symons, and niece Erin Schauer. He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sister Cheri Lunders.

Born on 1/22/47 in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, Skip grew up in Mason City, Iowa. He was not only an accomplished athlete, but his skills and dedication in baseball, basketball, football, and track and field set him apart, earning him admiration and respect from his peers. Skip's exceptional talents led him to attend Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, where he excelled in track and field while pursuing a degree in Physical Education. In 1969, he proudly graduated and embarked on a career that would touch the lives of countless young athletes.

Skip's coaching tenure spanned several communities, including Rockford, Franklin Grove, Paw Paw, and Shabbona. For 15 years, he passionately served as the boys' golf coach at Auburn High School, inspiring and mentoring numerous students who still remember him fondly today. Skip's impact extended beyond the sports field, as he also dedicated his time to teaching and making a positive difference in the lives of many young people.

In recognition of his exceptional athletic achievements, Skip was inducted into the Luther Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004, a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he made during his college years.

Golf held a special place in Skip's heart from an early age.  As a kid and young adult, he enjoyed the game, and it was during his late 40s that his love for golf truly blossomed, becoming an avid golfer.  Skip spent decades playing golf at his favorite local golf course, Silver Ridge.  Skip also participated in many golf tournaments over the years, many of which he won.  He found joy and camaraderie on the fairways, cherishing the moments spent playing alongside his son and grandson.

A celebration of life service will be held at Silver Ridge Golf Course on May 15th from 5pm-9pm, where friends, family, and those touched by Skip's vibrant spirit and lasting influence can gather to honor his memory.