Robert J. Goggins, 85

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.  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. bruzekfuneralhome.com