03/22/2026
Joseph William Goggin, born in Chicago in 1937, proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years. During his time in the service, he began a lifelong career as an air traffic controller, where he formed many lasting friendships.
Joe worked for many years at the Aurora, Illinois Air Traffic Control Center. A licensed pilot, he had a passion for flying and adventure. In one memorable chapter of his life, he would fly to Maine to pick up fresh lobster for a local restaurant back home. As a child, his daughter fondly remembers him bringing a few lobsters home, letting them crawl around the kitchen before their inevitable fate in a pot of boiling water—moments that became cherished family memories.
In 1978, Joe left Aurora for the foothills of Colorado, where he continued his work with the Federal Aviation Administration in Denver. When his daughter Debbie joined him there in 1979, their bond grew especially close and remained strong throughout his life.
Joe was a dedicated Mason for much of his adult life, becoming especially active after he and his wife, Saxon, moved to Sarasota, Florida. He took great pride in his role and commitment, eventually serving as a Past Master of his lodge—a position that reflected his leadership, integrity, and deep sense of brotherhood.
In recent years, Joe and Saxon returned to Colorado to be closer to family, where he spent his final chapter surrounded by those he loved most.
Joe was known for being stubborn and set in his ways, but also for his humor, kindness, and quiet strength. He left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Saxon Goggin; his daughter, Debbie Rutkowski; his son, Jerry Goggin; his stepdaughter, Tracy Colburn; and his grandchildren: Mikayla , Marissa, Andrew, and Alec and 5 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Thelma Goggin; his sisters, Rosemary Vallely and Cecilia Steiner; and his brother, John Goggin.
Joe lived a full and meaningful life—one defined by dedication, loyalty, and love for his family. Whether in the control tower, in the air, or at home, he carried a steady presence that others could rely on. He will be remembered not only for the life he built, but for the quiet strength, humor, and enduring love he gave so freely. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the lessons passed down, and the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.