Happy Anniversary sweetheart - this would have been our 44th! I still miss you dearly and still think about you every day - truly savoring the life and times we had. I am also grateful for all that you taught me over the years … especially the mechanical basics that allow me the independence to which I am now able to enjoy and prosper. Keep saving that spot for me! Love forever, Nancy

Happy Anniversary my love - it would have been 43 years today. I really miss you like crazy!
I will write a more detailed update in a few days. Love forever, Nancy

Happy Birthday Danny, I know you're doing well - Blake and I still hold you and Nancy in our hearts.

Happy Birthday sweetheart - this would have been your 70th! Still missing you like crazy but am so grateful for all the wonderful memories … what a great run we had … would do it all over again if given the chance … keep saving that place for me! Love always, Nancy

Happy Anniversary... today marks 42 years since that memorable Christmas Eve event with all our close family and friends.
It was the official launching of our many years together filled with lots of love and laughter ... and sometimes crazy adventures. At times we were like the ‘dynamic duo’ battling against the cruelty of the world — really been missing my partner during these challenging times.
But I know in my heart that 2020 would have been painful for you to experience - the pandemic and it’s associated isolation, the racial injustice, and the unhinged politics. I can find comfort in knowing that at least you did not have to endure any of this.
The bright side has been that I was able to get so much done around our place. These projects kept me very busy - and was truly my therapy! I completed building an outdoor kennel for the dogs - even installed a doggie door in the back door so they can come in/out as they please. I also finally completed organizing your workshop — all your tools and supplies - with everything accessible and labeled .... even hung a few of our J. Daniel Marine calendars! This really helped me with all the remaining projects I completed this year.
I want you to know that I still miss you like crazy - the dogs do too - and that I can still feel your presence from time to time.
Love, Nancy

Happy Birthday sweetheart - leaving you a tribute on this special day. You are always in my heart and thoughts every day - still miss you like crazy!
Love forever, Nancy

Dear Nancy so sorry for your loss. I knew Dan from elementary and high school. I also knew his family through family friends. My mother's best friend was good friends with Lucy, his Mom. Dan was always a lot of fun. He was always the leader in any game the wilder the game the better. We were in "sweathog" algebra along with your best man Carl. We had the meanest teacher for that class but we survived it in spite of her. In 7th grade English with Mrs. Richmond, who I found later was an alcoholic, which explained a lot of her personality. We had to write something in class. This kid Ray Perkins brings his paper to Mrs.Richmond and she reads it and says, "Raymond if you bring me another paper like this I'm going to have a heart attack." From the back of the room Dan says, "Ray bring her another paper." Now that's timing. He wasn't stupid he was fearless. He said what most of us wanted to say. Of course the old bat grabbed Dan by his collar and dragged him to the principal's office. I don't remember whay happened to him, but he was a legend in 7th grade English
Dan was a good example of someone who survived the educational system and made good. You had a wonderful ride together. I know you must miss him something awful every day. He had a strong spirit and I don't doubt you feel him. He was one of a kind, an original and as long as people remember him he will not be forgotten.

Dear Nancy, Please accept my very belated condolences, I cannot think of a more devastating time to make my acquaintance. For many years I have looked for my cousins, the last time I saw them was in New Jersey, before Auntie Lucie died, I tried looking for Robert but came up blank. I don’t know if Charles is still around he was a teen when I met him. I am the daughter of Auntie Lucie’s brother, she also had a sister named Shirley, and those cousins live in Canada. The Francis family. I now live In NC, I would of loved to meet uncle Arnold before he passed away.  Thank you for posting such a beautiful tribute, and helping me to find a semi closure of my lost cousins.
Thank you and God bless
Glenis.

It has taken me a long time, too long, to write my thoughts about Danny. We have known each other since grade school, so there is a lot to remember and write about. First I would like to say what a privilege it has been having Danny as a friend. He was one of those friends who was always loyal and would do whatever it took to be there for you or help in any way. But Danny was never average, and I mean that in a positive way. He never shied away from doing something new. He would astound me with his ability to adapt to all kinds of jobs and businesses that were as diverse as a car mechanic to sprinkler installation to ferrying yachts across the country. I never ceased to wonder what he would do next. His mind could conceive of all sorts of things to earn money that would blow me away. One of the things I remember from our later teenage years was Danny saying, " What if I, or sometimes we, were to...." (fill in the blank) My response would be, "Are you sure you want to do that?" One story that comes to mind was his idea to go to the Keansburg, N.J. boardwalk after we both got off work. Working at Carvel Ice Cream in Linden, I would get off about 10:30 PM. I would drive over to the Shell Station in Roselle where Danny worked, and where we both lived. There he would hop in my car and we would head for Keansburg. I was 17 and he was 16, so we were still accountable to our parents but did not tell them what we were doing. I lied and said I worked until 1:30 AM, (since I was the manager and had to close up). He did the same. One time we decided to ride the go-carts on the oval wooden track that had old tires in the middle to go around. Both of us were competitive, but in this activity he was the superior. However, in this case, I was able to get ahead of him. We raced longer than normal since we were the only ones there and the owner allowed us the extra time. I managed to stay ahead going into the second to the last turn. Holding the inside lane, I was confident of a win. But Danny was undeterred and was not going to lose gracefully. He was able to get side by side and as we entered the turn. He attempted to cut me off to gain the lead. His left front wheel hit my right front wheel and caused me to run into the mass of tires. He then passed me, while I sat on a platform of black round rubber. Danny won! But, in doing so, caused the front axle on my cart to break. To say the owner was upset does not give justice to his temperament at the time. We took off running to the sound of "You D... Kids!!!" When we had reached a safe distance we looked to see what time it was, 1:40 AM. The significance? We both had to be home before 2:00 AM. Somehow, whether God slowed time down or we were flying, we got from Keansburg to our homes in Roselle with three minutes to spare. Normally that is a 35 minute trip doing 60-65 down the Garden State Parkway. I have know idea how fast we were going, so I will leave it up to you to do the math. Life was never dull when Danny was around. I hope to add more stories in the near future. But I close in saying that as unpredictable as Danny was, kindness was a trait that always showed through. I know the Lord blessed him with Nancy because of the love they had for each other and her ability to remain calm with a ball of energy known as Danny Gooding. I look forward to the day when I will see him again in Glory!

Wow I'm just finding out that your gone Dan. Think I cried a river when I found out. My most adventurous runs were always the ones I did with you and Nanci. Omg how much you must be missed. I'll never forget. Your sense of humor, your stories that made me laugh, your intelligence that always amazed me, your kindness. I remember one day us celebrating in my hotel room in California and we drank one wine cooler and all fell asleep in my room. I felt so connected to you both. I was just starting out in the industry and you were like my teacher. I learned so much from you and became better at my job because of you. As i write this I'm crying cause I'm missing you so much. Wish you could come back. I hope heaven is treating you well. You were blessed the day Nanci came into your life and she felt blessed too for many years to have you. I remember asking you when was the last time you was home and you said 22 years ago. Gosh is this real cause i still find myself looking for you on the road. I love you Dan and I'm thankful that i was blessed to have met you. You will be forever missed but more important you'll be forever remembered in my heart. Memories of you will linger in my heart till my life end. I look forward to seeing you again. Save me a good story to tell me when we meet again until then my friend RIP. Love you

It's now been a year without you. I knew it was going to be the hardest thing I've ever had to do -- I still miss you like crazy!
But you've given me so many special memories -- enough for 3 lifetimes -- that are helping to carry me through. I am writing a more detailed tribute which is posted under the 'STORY' section ... to be continued ...

A special tribute from Pam I am posting on her behalf ...

"I am so sorry to hear about Dan's passing. Tricia and I have become friends and we work together on a board of directors ... all because of you and Dan. When her husband died Dan told me I needed to offer her support which I did and of course it has come back 100 fold.

We often talk about you and Dan and know that he is here in spirit only. I want you to know that if there is anything I might be able to do to help you, please let me know. Dan was such a big presence that he has left behind a big wake and will not be forgotten by anyone who knew him.

Warm regards,

[Executive Director American Boat Builders & Repairers Assoc.]

Happy Birthday Danny - been a tough year for losing loved ones but we keep you in our hearts and our humor.
Every time I see something about Kona you and Nancy come to mind.

What a wonderful memorial for Dan! I am sure he is very pleased with all the special photos and comments as he watches from his heavenly truck stop!
I have always admired you and Dan as a couple who really had it "together". And you break the mold. There is not anything you cannot do! My very biggest hugs flying in your direction.
Tricia

Nancy I will miss him and his stories. I really feel privileged to have met Dan and had some of the deep conversations we had some times for over an hour at a time.I always tried to encourage him in that we are the lucky ones to live long enough for grey hairs.Best of everything to you...stay busy....He was a humble decent guy with a good life experience...God bless

Nancy
Wow was so shocked and sadden to hear about Dan passing. I was a yacht broker at Summerfields and was always happy when you guys pulled in. You even delievered my boat from Texas. You were a one of a kind team you him and the puppy. He was always so proud of you. If you never need help please let me know. I am there for you always.
Pepper and Chloe Rodda

My Dear Nancy, I’m very sorry to hear about Daniel, but He is now looking after you, and I do believe he will wait for you in the gates of Heaven, All my love, Isis

Hi Nancy, Amy and Ryan from Summerfield days. We only just heard about Dan today and we send all our love. I doubt in a million years I would ever meet a couple like the two of you again. It really was special when you showed up at the boatyard. So many memories of Patrick's point, presidente, and the men giving each other hell. Some of the best days ever.

Nancy,
What a beautiful tribute you have written! You guys were always a bright spot when you showed up in Lighthouse Point to pick up or launch a boat.
After we closed... I would always recommend you guys as the most careful conscientious transporters in the business........bar none.
On the personal side I enjoyed the conversations about “the real stuff” once the job was complete.
Dan will be missed for sure!
I’m glad you two shared this magnificent Journey together!
God Bless you Nancy!
May you find Peace in Him!
Dennis

Nancy you did a beautiful tribute to Dan. It was obviously done with much love and devotion.
I’ll always remember how quickly his charm and intelligence sucked me in. I loved working with Dan and Nan because I knew I was selling their service as the best in the business. I will always cherish our long discussions and his complete acceptance of our differences. A true gentleman and a gentle man. Hopefully we will meet again....

Hi Nancy, This is Chris Bosley, Burton’s oldest daughter. Dan & Nan are legend and Dan’s wartmth, kindness, and humor l will always remember.

Hi Nancy, this is Burton’s daughter, Holly. Thank you for making this memorial page, it is heartwarming to see the photos and hear some stories of Dan. My memories of Dan are of a open hearted, kind and funny man. We were always happy when Dan and Nan showed up at Summerfields, you brightened the place with your smiles, friendship and stories. I was always struck by your relationship, working, living and traveling together like that and to still be best friends...very inspiring. I think it’s rare to find a love like that. Sending big hugs and love across the ocean to you.

Dear God I will miss his phone calls - I will write more - once I process his going on to full time fishing.
This guy is going to be missed.
In this family, he was loved.
He had a gift of appreciating the "moveable feast" of life.
A rare one, a good one.

Dan was my husband, best friend and soul-mate for over forty years -- and during the past thirty of them we were practically 'joined at the hip'. We worked together, played together and even socialized with the same circle of friends. It is safe to conclude that I knew him best -- and want to share with you examples of those redeeming and amazing qualities that I treasured most ...

Friendly and outgoing:
Dan was a people-person. He would approach complete strangers in parking lots and start a conversation that sometimes would last over an hour. My most notable recollection came while we were eating in a restaurant and he engaged the next table in a dialogue -- and before we knew it he had practically the entire restaurant in a discussion exchanging ideas and thoughts! Try this the next time you go to a Denny's.

Great Communicator:
Dan loved to talk as well as to listen -- he thrived on the exercise of exchanging ideas. He always kept in touch with his friends and family -- calling everyone from time to time just to reach out and chat. Whenever we could arrange it during our travels he would MAKE the time to stop and visit for holidays, special events, or just a few hours of face time.

Generous:
Dan was that guy who would stop the car at the street corner and give the sign-holder money. If he was approached in a parking lot he would hand over the extra money in his pocket or any left-over food we had handy. We spent many hours at the Western Union shipping $$ to family members in need -- even during our lean times when we would have to sell something to come up with the cash.

Compassionate:
He was also generous with his time. I heard him spend hours on the phone listening, consoling, offering helpful advice to people in need -- friends, family, and even business competitors too! He genuinely wanted to help others via his own life experiences. His heart was always in the right place -- which brings me to the next topic.

BIG HEART:
As tough as he may have seemed on the outside, Dan basically was a 'heart on 2 legs'. He was very sensitive to other's feelings and quite intuitive. He also loved sharing his happiness. I remember our 2003 month-long fishing trip in Hawaii that he negotiated in exchange for his transport services. After we arrived and assessed that the condo we were offered would comfortably accommodate more people he immediately invited his 2 fishing buddies from Florida to share in the experience.

Passionate:
Dan loved life -- and lived it with a vengeance! He did the things he wanted to do and usually in dramatic fashion. During his school years he was a true 'motor-head' spending most of his classroom time redesigning engines so he could win his next street racing challenge. His yearbook was filled with so many messages of thanks for the rides he gave them to school in his cool car! Then later in life when he determined that fishing was to be his hobby ... it was on! Not only did he pursue many deep-sea fishing adventures via friends and/or charters but we must have travelled to several dozen rivers across the country so he could master his fly-fishing techniques.

Spontaneous & flair for adventure:
You are all familiar with our gypsy lifestyle ... but what you may not know is that this started back when we were dating. While living in New Jersey at the time Dan suggested that we take a drive up to Canada for dinner that night -- next thing you know we were eating Coq Au Vin in Montreal surrounded by everyone speaking French - Ooh la la! Then soon after we were first married Dan suggested that we 'pack-it-up', leave the east coast, and travel the country to search for a better place to plant our roots. We then embarked on our first cross-country journey all the way to California -- with all our worldly possessions packed in a van towing his classic 68 convertible Camaro. What an adventure we had!

Mischievous:
Dan always had a talent to keep life interesting and loved to make people laugh. HE TOLD MANY STORIES about when he was a youth attending Catholic school and the trouble he would get into with the nuns. The funniest was the time he got hold of a clicker and used it during a practice church session. When the nuns would press their own clicker ONCE for everyone to kneel and TWICE for everyone to stand -- Dan would interrupt with his own clicks and got the whole church in a tizzy! Too bad for Dan that the nuns didn't have a similar sense of humor when his clicker was discovered.

Business-savvy:
The qualities I've discussed so far are what led me to falling in love with Dan. But his instinctive ability to succeed in business impressed me the most. He started with the basics -- first and foremost do a good job. He was insistent on quality. From marketing to promotional ideas his techniques were always on target -- as was his focus on closing a deal -- the best success is when everybody wins. He also had an innate ability to read people -- especially to cut through the b.s. and see into a person's true soul.

Integrity:
Dan always believed in doing the right thing. This was part of his DNA code. I recall one time a potential client contacted us with a good job explaining he was looking for the husband-and-wife team he had been consulting with but had lost the phone number -- and hoping it was us. I knew it didn't sound familiar but double-checked my notes just in case. When I presented this to Dan he determined that this client for looking for our friends (the other husband-and-wife team) who were also our competitors. Dan could have easily taken the job but instead swiftly bowed out of the deal and reconnected all parties.

Craftsmanship:
Dan was a hands-on guy. As early as I can remember he was using his welding skills to manufacture a utility trailer or build wood-burning stoves ... to the most recent years when he would customize rigging for boats or build a boat hauling rig. At one point he even took an old Peterbilt from a wrecking yard and rebuilt it with parts to produce an awesome over-the-road truck which we used for many years.

Finally I want to share my memories of Dan's honesty ... the ability to speak-his-mind or tell-it-like-it-is. He did not come equipped with a filter but he tried his best to be diplomatic.

We used to enjoy watching movies together and then pick out our favorite lines to use for future reference. For example while we were dating he took me to see JAWS in the theater -- after which we agreed that our favorite line was "we're gonna need a bigger boat" -- and we used this line jokingly for certain situations in the years to come.

In the later years we watched the movie JERRY MAGUIRE and discussed the line "you complete me". This was so profound. While I was the rock in Dan's life that gave him a grounding force ... he was the rock in my life that gave me strength to soar beyond my wildest dreams! We completed each other.

Although he agreed Dan said his favorite line was "show me the money"... so we went with both ...
and that's why I'll miss him and love him forever.
Thank you for any amazing life!
See you on the other side my love.
Nancy