David Goeke

August 9, 1942 – October 21, 2018

Dave Goeke of Othello passed away peacefully on Oct. 21 at the age of 76. He was born Aug. 9, 1942, to Fred and Connie Goeke in Dubuque, Iowa. He is survived by Audre, his wife of 51 years; his son Jim; daughter-in-law Dana; beloved granddaughter Elsa of Spokane and son Scott of Seattle; brother Jim (Karen) of Lincoln, Neb.; sister Julie Lamm of Mt. Prospect, Ill.; three nephews and two great-nephews.

Dave grew up in Illinois and spent his life working on and managing National Wildlife Refuges in Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Carolina and Washington. He worked hard to establish the Hanford Reach National Monument before retiring in 1999.

Dave was a talented and dedicated wildlife photographer which gave him great joy in his retirement.

Dave shared his love of wildlife with all and taught many to look more closely and appreciate the beauty of nature all around us.

A private family celebration of his life will be held in the spring.

The family requests that memorials go to the Othello Sandhill Crane Festival.