John T. Goliber Sr. passed peacefully into eternal life on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 12, 1935, in Albany, John was the middle son of the late Joseph and Margaret Goliber, and brother Richard and the late Joseph Jr. He graduated from Christian Brothers Academy, earned a degree in economics from Siena College, and his wings from the U.S. Air Force where he flew F-86’s, C-97’s, and C-130’s, completing his military career with the 109th Tactical Airlift Group in Schenectady.
He retired in 1991 after 25 years with Pan American World Airways where he piloted B-707’s, L-1011’s, and B-747’s. After retirement, he enjoyed summers on his family estate on Pine Hill Bend in Ballston Lake and winters in Naples, Fla. where he delighted in the many activities with his Mainsail family, especially Ruth and the late Dale Graft.
He is survived by his one and only, Carol, his wife of 58 years; his eight adored children, John Thomas Jr. (Angela), David James, Michael Joseph, Carol Anne (Denis), Paul Edward (Tara), Kathleen Mary, Jeffrey Bruce, and predeceased by daughter, Elizabeth; his 16 cherished grandchildren, Jack, Clare, Grace, Joshua (Victoria), Caroline, Sophie, Joey, Kelly, Benjamin, Elizabeth, Nicholas, J.T., Mary Carol, Jeffrey, Helen, and Maddie.
We will dearly miss the quiet manner of a gentleman, his flying stories, history lessons, financial advice, and most of all – his unconditional love. A graveside service will be held on Friday at 9:30 a.m. in the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Friends and family are cordially invited to an informal gathering on Pine Hill Bend, Ballston Lake following the ceremony to honor a life well lived. And as John jokingly said, “In lieu of contributions, please send flowers to my wife!” Seriously, donations may be made to the Eddy Palliative Care, 433 River St., Suite 3000, Troy, NY 12180. To express condolences, please visit, catricalafuneralhome.com