Robert Goetschke

Robert Goetschkes received recognition for his dedicated work in various domains outside his military service. President Bush gave him a Certificate of Appreciation for Peace Corps Service in 1992. In 2017, he received another National Ski Patrol 10-Year Service Award. Additionally, Goetschkes was honored with the Knights of Aksarben Good Neighbor Award in 2012 and the Teacher of the Year Award from the Norwin School District in 2006.

Currently, Goetschkes contributes his critical thinking skills and passion for efficiency to his role as a warehousing professional at the Leeward Light Charitable Foundation. This full-time position allows him to make a positive impact by supporting the foundation's philanthropic initiatives. The Leeward Light Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization operating charitable thrift stores across New England, channels all profits into the community by donating to various charities and foundations. Goetschkes finds fulfillment in his retirement from teaching as he continues to give back to the community through this meaningful role. Since 2009, the foundation has donated over $3 million to support local New England charities, focusing on providing essential resources such as food, clothing, and comfort to community members in need.

Following his honorable discharge from the Coast Guard after 11 years of service, Goetschkes married and started a family. As a father, he firmly believes education and service are pivotal in establishing a lasting legacy. Alongside his accomplishments as an educator and decorated veteran, Goetschkes devoted his time to several community programs. He dedicated five years of service to the Red Cross Disaster Services Department, playing a crucial role in providing immediate disaster relief, including access to food, water, and shelter, to victims of natural disasters. Additionally, for five years, he worked closely with the Henry Doorly Zoo as an aquarium diver, leveraging his skills acquired during his time in the U.S. Coast Guard to contribute to the maintenance and advancement of aquarium programs.

In his personal life, Goetschkes nurtures a deep love for learning, which permeates all aspects of his being. He wholeheartedly engages in activities such as writing, fly-fishing, disc golf, cooking, and bird-watching, approaching them with the same passion he exhibited during his teaching career. Notably, he was certified as a Certified Sous Chef with the American Culinary Federation. Furthermore, he cherishes spending quality time outdoors with friends and family. His childhood experiences of vacationing in the Adirondack Mountains sparked a lifelong love for winter sports. When not engrossed in a game of backgammon or creating culinary masterpieces, he can be found skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, surfing, sailing, or scuba diving.

Goetschkes is remarkable, epitomizing dedication, service, and philanthropy. His vast contributions to education, community engagement, and personal pursuits have impacted those around him.