It is with great sadness that our family shares the passing of David Goldstein. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 50 years, Cathy, along with this daughter, son-in-law, four grandsons, brother, and extended family. He was predeceased by his younger daughter, Crystal, who passed away only 6-weeks ago after a courageous battle with cancer.

Dave grew up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan among the shelves of his family’s liquor store on Avenue B and E. 4th Street. Born into a tight-knit Jewish family, his childhood was surrounded by the bustle of city life while taking his first steps between the shelves of the family liquor store. He often said listening to the stories traded over the shop counter at the liquor store taught him more about life than any classroom ever could-an early education he carried with him throughout his life. As a boy, he was spirited and curious, the kind of kid who could find adventure (and the occasional trouble) in every alleyway and stoop. Whether he was sneaking off to swim in the East River on a hot summer day or running errands for neighbors, he was known for his mischievous grin and boundless energy. Those early years shaped a man who was street-smart, big-hearted, and endlessly loyal. Dave grew into someone who stood up for what he thought was right, worked hard, and never lost the spark that made him unforgettable.

Dave’s life truly began when he met his future wife, Cathy, while working at Great Bear Auto as an auto mechanic. For fifty years, he walked through life hand in hand with his beloved wife. Their marriage was not just a partnership, but a home, even through ups and downs—a place of comfort and unshakable devotion. They built a life together through good times and bad. When he married into Cathy’s family, he didn’t simply gain in-laws; he gained a world of siblings, cousins, and connections that welcomed him with open arms. To them, he wasn’t “in-law” anything—he became one of their own. He showed up to family gatherings and celebrations armed with stories that could fill the whole evening, some which may have been a bit exaggerated to add to the humor.

For fifty years, he and his wife built a life that was rich not because of what they owned, but because of who they loved. They shared ordinary days that weathered storms and celebrated milestones. They grew up and grew older side by side. That kind of devotion leaves a mark that time cannot erase. Dave was a man of loyalty that ran deep and whose work ethic never wavered. Dave was a proud member of the Teamsters Local 812 for soft drink and brewery workers. Dave showed up-every day, without fail- to his job as an auto mechanic for Canada Dry, which was then taken over by Pepsi. Dave was unwaveringly loyal to Pepsi, even giving “that look” to those that didn’t drink Pepsi owned products. Dave believed that commitment was the truest measure of a man’s character. Loyalty and dedication weren’t qualities he talked about—they were simply who he was. Later in life, Dave found the Catholic faith, and it became a guiding light for him and Cathy. He embraced the Church with that same devotion and loyalty, attending Mass faithfully and living his life according to its teachings. Though he came to the Catholic faith later in life, he quickly became a dedicated member, finding comfort, purpose, and community in the Church.

Retirement was never quite Dave’s style—quickly returning to work because he thrived on being productive, contributing, and on feeling useful. Dave was so grateful to have found a new work family working the counter part-time at Glendale Auto. He enjoyed his work and found joy in the daily rhythm of life, and he carried that same sense of diligence into every responsibility. Even as he grew older, he never gave up the thrill of riding his Harley until he no longer could, embracing the freedom of the road with the same spirit he lived his life.

Outside of work, Dave loved being with his family, taking care of the family pets, and enjoying dinner outings with his wife. Dave loved spending time in places where everyone knew his name, greeted him with a smile, and eagerly awaited a story or two once he had his Miller High Life in hand. His storytelling was a gift, especially for his grandchildren, who received memories and lessons wrapped in tales that were occasionally a bit questionable in content—and in language. He leaves behind a legacy of humor, resilience, and stories that will continue to be shared with laughter and love.

Our family would like to thank everyone for their support, prayers, and kindness during this difficult time so soon after the passing of Dave’s younger daughter. Though Dave is no longer with us, his spirit, his stories, and his love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.