Malden Catholic Sports Hall of Fame track champion

Published January 29, 2021

MELROSE — Robert J. Goggin, 77, of Melrose passed away on Friday, Jan. 22, 2021, from complications of COVID-19 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and kidney disease. At the time of his death, Bob was a resident of Artis Senior Living of Reading.

Bob was born in Malden on March 1, 1943, to the late Catherine (Halpin) and Joseph Goggin.

He graduated from Malden Catholic High School in 1961 and attended Northeastern University. In 2002, Bob was inducted into the Malden Catholic Sports Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in track. He always remained so proud of his state championship in the 50-yard dash.

Bob was an avid sports fan. He loved watching all the Boston teams. He also enjoyed watching and playing golf. Bob was lucky enough to have lifelong friends — “Murph,” “Byrnesie” and “Guaragna,” among others. Before Bob’s Alzheimer’s became too debilitating, he enjoyed any time spent with them, whether it be a day on the golf course or just getting together for lunch.

Bob’s greatest joy was his family. As a husband, brother, father and grandfather, Bob was —to use one of his favorite expressions— “outstanding.”

Bob was predeceased by his parents, his beloved brother James Goggin (Elaine), his cousin Paul Halpin, his uncle James Halpin and Buster, “the greatest dog that ever was.”

He leaves his wife of 53 years, Donna (Adrien) Goggin, and daughters Laurie Zakarian (husband Jack), Lisa Pietropaolo (Michael) and Janice Miller (Nelson). He also leaves his grandchildren Charlotte Zakarian, Maya Pietropaolo, Brooke Pietropaolo and Tre Miller. Bob’s family is heartbroken. They will love and miss him always.

At Bob’s request, services will be private. Interment will be at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452.

Bob’s family would like to particularly thank Dina, Maria, Maryann, Patricia and Tammy of Artis Senior Living for caring for him with the utmost kindness, love and respect. Special thanks also to Dr. Ronald Sen and Carol Roberts, NP, for their years of care and kindness.

To sign online condolence visit www.gatelyfh.com.