Ralph Goneau

BEARSVILLE…. Ralph Goneau, 89, of Baker Rd. was called to heaven on Friday, March 26, 2021.  Born August 18, 1931 in Newton, MA he was the son of the late Ralph and Marguerite Keane Goneau.  A Veteran of the US Army he served in Korea and was honorably discharged.   He was employed for many years as a buyer for the May Clothing Company in New York City.  During his employment for May’s he took the risk of purchasing blue jeans for the women’s department which became a huge hit.   After a successful career in Manhattan he retired and moved full time to his weekend retreat in Bearsville.  Ralph and his late spouse, Richard Wilhelm, purchased and co-owned the Woodstock Hardware.

Active in the Woodstock/Bearsville Community, Ralph was a railroad enthusiast and was a member of NARCOA.org.  He traveled the country as a owner/operator of an antique rail car.  He authored and contributed to several publications including, “The Guide to Tourist Railroads and Museums”.

He was on the Board of Directors of the Woodstock Rescue Squad and had volunteered many years with the annual blood drive.  He was a volunteer with “Meals on Wheels” program and the soup kitchen.   He was a member of A.A.  

     Predeceased by his spouse, Richard, and his siblings, Audrey Bailey, Jane Byrne, Louise Abelli, and Paul, Phil and William Goneau.  Survivors include a brother, Peter Goneau and a sister, Marlene Mele and several nieces and nephews also survive.

     His Funeral Service will be held 10:00 AM Tuesday at the Gormley Funeral Home, Main St., Phoenicia with the Rev. Victoria Becker officiating.   Interment with military honors will follow in the Artist’s Cemetery, Woodstock, NY.   Friends will be received Monday 2-4 and 7-9 PM.   Family suggests donations in Ralph’s memory be made to a charity of your choice that Ralph volunteered with.   

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