Bob Goggins
June 10, 1936 - March 20, 2022
Robert J. Goggins, age 85, of New Prague, died peacefully on Sunday, March 20, 2022 at Praha Village in New Prague. He was born on June 10, 1936 in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin to Patrick Henry and Anna Mae (Duffy) Goggins. He grew up in Chilton, WI, attending St. Augustine Parochial School and graduating from Chilton High School. He attended college for a brief time before entering the US Army for 3 years. He attained his Bachelor of Science Degree in Math from Oshkosh State College, where he was voted prom king and served as the captain of his college baseball team. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from William Mitchell College of Law. His first job was in Wausau, Wisconsin, but he soon moved to New Prague and joined the Bob O’Neill Law Firm. It was then, that his infectious laugh drew the attention of the woman who would become his wife and join him in New Prague. Joan Elizabeth Lahr and Bob were married at Assumption Church in Eden Valley, Minnesota on October 23, 1971. Bob practiced law for 18 years before being appointed a district court judge and serving in Scott and Carver Counties. He served as the Assistant Chief Judge of the First Judicial District and later on the Minnesota Board of Public Defense. He rejoined private practice when his two children expressed their desire to join him in practice in New Prague and he remained there until retirement.
Bob’s athletic ability followed him throughout life, both personally as an enthusiastic member of an over 35 baseball team and perhaps, most importantly, as a coach in his kids’ sports. He loved nothing more than coaching youth baseball, softball, and hockey and being a passionate fan watching their high school sports. He was a dedicated runner throughout his life as well. He loved pheasant and deer hunting and fishing trips to Canada. Golden retrievers were best buddies and companions throughout his life. He served not only as a trustee for St. Patrick Catholic Church but also taught religious education during the years his children were involved.
Bob was a natural leader and a consummate gentleman, with a genuineness that made him a magnet for people. His kindness, caring, and ability to carry on a stimulating conversation made him a natural in any surrounding. His storytelling was legendary and his frequent jokes were surrounded by his signature laugh. He was fiercely proud of his Irish heritage and the Green Bay Packers, planning many a family event around both! Greeting you with a twinkle in his eye, and a warm smile that lit up his face, and an interest in what was happening in your life, Bob had a way of making one feel like you were the only person in the room. His stories, his laughter, and his beautiful smile will be sorely missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
Bob is survived by his wife, Joan of New Prague; son, Patrick Hugh (Rita) Goggins of New Prague; daughter, Colleen (Benjamin) King of New Prague; grandchildren, Aidan & Molly King and Hugh & Bobby Goggins; sister-in-law, Dee Goggins of Waupaca, WI. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Hugh and George; sisters, Patsy Brooks and Rose (in infancy).
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, March 25, 2022 at 1:00 PM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Mass will be live-streamed on npcatholic.org. Visitation will take place Thursday evening from 4-7 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home. (There will be no visitation Friday morning.) Burial will follow Mass at St. Catherine Cemetery in rural Prior Lake where military honors will be conducted by the New Prague Area Veterans Honor Guard.
Joan and family, I heard about Bob’s death as I was driving with Fr Kevin up to meet with our spiritual director yesterday (Kevin met with our spiritual director first, I followed him … Kevin is my elder afterall and it gives me a chance to rebuke anything he says about me :).). I felt both happiness and sadness at the news. I know that these last couple of years with all of Bob’s memory loss was difficult for him and for you, and now Bob was finally free from all of that. But I miss Bob’s presence and service… Read more »
What a wonderful life Bob must have had. A man of the earth, hunting, fishing, and a conservationist. His wife to be and my wife were roommates near the University of Minnesota. Some years later we learned she married a lawyer and moved to what I can only describe as ‘Lake Wobegon’ Minnesota. When we saw the advantages of “country living” in Minnesota, it was time to reconsider traditional lifestyles. Bob loved the outdoors and I bet these memories followed him and comforted him to the end. We can all wish for a peaceful end, God bless the life of… Read more »
Condolences to the family for your loss. Bob was a kind and gentle man.
Arnie & Mary Smisek
Bob and I met on night one of our long journey through four years of night law school. We kept in touch, and went on several hunting and Canadian fishing trips. I am so glad I could visit him, although tearfully for the last time, at Praha last fall. He is one of the rare few who combined honor, common sense, and refreshing Irish shenanigans that made him so memorable. My favorite memory is his impassioned response to Joan’s admonitions after some minor misbehaving “But Joan, you knew that when you married me!” I will miss him often forever. Bruce… Read more »
I practiced law in Montgomery from 1979 to 1985. Bob initially was an adversary, and after he became a judge I tried a case in front of him, and also later had a mediation in front of him after he retired as a judge. I remember that in the case I tried before him, he approached me after a conference before closing statement, and patted me on the back. He was fully supporting me and wanted me to succeed in the closing, and I did. His wife might remember from the time that I teared up in frustration in front of… Read more »
Joan, Pat, Rita, Colleen, Ben and family- So sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, dad and grandpa. Bob was such a great man; he really did have a twinkle in his eye! He was so very respected, admired and loved by all. A couple of times, I would run into him at Coborn’s and talk about when he would come down as visiting Judge to Le Sueur County and the good times had there. He made everyone feel respected and cared for. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May any memories that may bring you tears now, bring you laughter… Read more »
Whenever I ran into Bob it was always a joy. He was always encouraging and supportive of me as a fellow judge and Irishwoman. He will be missed.
Great man that will be missed by many God in will judge him with the love he showed others
Bob will always be in my heart as one of the most sincere, fun-loving, thoughtful people of my life experience. Memories shared with my husband Jim—from grade school at St Augustine’s—to Oshkosh—to gracious comments and outrageous stories at gatherings…his polish, humor & Irish jig will be among my fondest memories. May God bless Bob and hold his loving family in the palm of His hand. It’s a blessing to have known Bob as a dear friend to Jim and me…and countless others!
Bob was a wonderful man.
Wonderful man!
Bob was a great man and a Judge that made sure criminals paid a price for their actions and did not want to come before him again. He was fair kind and understanding, but demanded respect in his courtroom. I enjoyed talking to him and sharing time. He always had time for those who wore the badge and knew we were part of the justice system. The gate have opened wide in heaven and he stands proud knowing he has help so many people to get on track rather than the slap on the hand we see today. I will… Read more »
It was my pleasure to have met Bob on a number of occasions as active and retired judges. He was so well regarded by his colleagues on the bench…known for his civility and sense of decorum. He did justice tempered with empathy…the kind of judge that made the rest of us all look better! I hope there’s a judge club in heaven…if not, he will start one there!!!…..Jack Vandenorth
Our family knew Bob both professionally and casually and his beautiful obituary describes him perfectly!
In recent months we enjoyed seeing Bob at Praha Village and we never grew tired of teasing him about his beloved Packers! Our condolences to the Goggins family. Rest In Peace, Bob.
Oh he was the Best* A Twinkle in his eye always. He always knew you by name and was always so friendly and genuine. He will be missed. My condolences to all his family. Cherish your memories.