Dutchy Gerhardus Goossen

It is with deep sadness that the family of Dutchy Gerhardus Goossen announces his passing on Friday, September18, 2026, after experiencing a sudden cardiac event at Brooksby Village in Peabody.

Those of us who knew Dutchy through the years enjoyed his love of adventure beginning with his leaving his family home in Holland to journey first to Canada with his cousin Fritz on a boat that gave free passage to Canada, and then to Medford MA, and finally his settling in Wakefield. Throughout his life, Dutchy welcomed new experiences, new places, and new friends while remaining close to his nine brothers and sisters in Holland.

His career as an accomplished mechanic, initially in car dealerships in Massachusetts, then for years at Medford Brake and Wheel, and finally at Andover Country Club, earned him the appreciation and respect of fellow-workers and customers. He was known for his strong work ethic and determination to tackle any task required of him. He always flavored his work with a spirit of fun.

Dutchy loved spending time with his immediate family, his wife, his two kids and his grandsons, Darien and Lincoln. And he was a welcomed presence at every Bernardin family event. His vacations to St. Maarten earned him the title of honorary family tour guide

Dutchy was born in Almelo, Holland on December 25, 1943, the son of the late Hermanus and Geertruida Goossen.

He was the beloved husband of Julie Bernardin and the loving father of Gary Goossen of Medford and Anneke Goossen of Woburn. He was the dear brother of Annie, Angela, Trudi, Henni, and Jos, and the late Ine, Jhonny and Marcel. He is survived by his grandsons, Darien and Lincoln.

A brief Gaveside Service will be held at Lakeside Cemetery, 201 North Avenue, Wakefield on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 11:30 a.m., immediately followed by a collation at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5 Bryant Street. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Perhaps a fitting tribute to Dutchy’s presence in our lives is to live life’s adventures fully, enjoy the company of others, work hard, and embrace life with a spirit of fun.