Charles A. Goldy

Charles "Chuck" (Bud) Goldy, 73, joyfully and peacefully passed into the arms of our Lord, Jesus Christ, on May 29, 2025, after a courageous second battle with cancer. He was blessed to pass on his own terms, at home and surrounded by love, with his devoted wife Joanna (Gizara) Goldy by his side.

Chuck was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, on October 26, 1951, to Charles and Geraldine (Hay) Goldy. Soon after, his family, including his sister Deb, returned to Amsterdam, New York, where Chuck spent his youth in the West End. He graduated from Wilbur H. Lynch High School in the class of 1970.

Shortly after graduation, Chuck joined the U.S. Navy in April 1971. He proudly served his country in the elite Submarine Silent Service for 23 years, retiring as a Master Chief in June 1993. His distinguished military career took him across the globe, including assignments in Atsugi, Japan; Charleston, South Carolina; Oakland, California; Windsor Locks, Connecticut; New London/Groton, Connecticut; and finally, Ballston Spa, New York. He trained in both Nuclear Power and Undersea Medicine, and later taught at the Groton Nuclear Undersea Medical Training Facility (NUMI). 

Chuck served aboard the USS James K. Polk (SSBN-645) in Charleston and the USS Billfish (SSN-676) in Groton, proudly earning the title of "Doc" and forming lifelong bonds with his crewmates. His fellow “boat people” shared a unique and enduring camaraderie—rooted in sacrifice, discipline, and love of country—and Chuck cherished those relationships deeply.

After retiring from the Navy, Chuck continued his service to others through civilian work at Amsterdam Memorial Hospital, Liberty Enterprises, New Dimensions in Health Care, and later again at Amsterdam Memorial Hospital, which eventually merged into St. Mary’s Healthcare. He retired due to health concerns but remained engaged in his many passions.

Chuck had a lifelong love of weather and was often called upon to forecast for local events. He was an avid golfer, often playing in charity tournaments, and enjoyed fishing and camping—especially at Sunset Bay in Mayfield—with family and friends. A devoted fan of the New York Yankees and Giants, Chuck was happiest watching sports with loved ones or spending time with his grandchildren. He treasured his daily conversations with his dear friend Ray, and will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and loyalty.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Joanna (Gizara) Goldy; his daughter Tina R. Goldy of Towson, MD; his son Chuck A. Goldy (AnnMarie Carnelli) of Danielson, CT and his cherished grandchildren: Adelyn Q. (Addie), Oliver T. (Ollie), and Vivianna (Vivi) Stroup of Towson, MD, and Jettson J. (Jetty) Goldy of Danielson, Connecticut.

He is also survived by his brother Pat Goldy of Hilton, NY; brother-in-law Keeno Lampman of Phoenix, NY; brother Gerald “Cork” Goldy (Judy Battaglia) of Dunedin, FL; and sister Coleen (Dan) Rueb of Tarpon Springs, FL. He leaves behind many in-laws who adored him: Rose (Hans) Proske, Paul (Lori) Gizara, Lou (Lisa) Gizara, Theresa (Doug) Chrysler, Willie Gizara, Patti (Gary) Aldi, and Lisa (Tim) Becker. He is also survived by his many beloved nieces and nephews and the mother of his children, Karen (Francisco) Corley of Plainfield, CT and his many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Chuck was predeceased by his beloved mother Geraldine Goldy; in-laws Henry and Mary Jo Gizara; sister Deb Lampman; sister-in-law Marilyn (Kiuber) Goldy; and his dear nephew Zachary Dievendorf.

The family would especially like to thank Theresa Chrysler, who from day one provided unwavering compassion, comfort, and peace during Chuck’s final months. Deep gratitude also goes to the Amsterdam Fire Department, GAVAC, St. Mary’s ER and St. Theresa Hall staff, Dr. Emily Etzkorn and her team, Dr. Michael Sheridan and Sue Frazier, and Community Hospice of Albany, Saratoga, and Montgomery County. A very special thank you to Chuck’s team of caregivers: Lori, RN; Julie, LPN; and Kawana, LPN.

Chuck was cremated, and a celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Riley Mortuary, 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon, followed by Military Honors at St. Stanislaus Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck’s memory may be made to:

Navy Safe Harbor Foundation, 2961-A Hunter Mill Rd., Suite 644, Oakton, VA 22124

Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Rd., Albany, NY 12205

Amsterdam Ambulance/EMS Services, City Hall, 61 Church St., Amsterdam, NY 12010

GAVAC, 24 Gardner Place, Amsterdam, NY 12010

Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern NY, in honor of his granddaughter Addie Stroup, 3 Washington Square, Albany, NY 12205