Gerald Goldman

Gerald (Jerry) Goldman born May 27, 1926 in Alameda, CA to Gertrude and Harry Goldman passed away November 30, 2021 at age 95.  Jerry is survived by his wife of 68 years, Bette; sons Barry Goldman, Jeff Goldman (wife Denise) and daughter Denise Goldman.  Grandchildren include Kimi, Daniel, Cassidy and great grandchild, Harlan. 

Growing up, Jerry was nicknamed “Beanie” by his family because he was so smart.  He attended Washington High School in San Francisco where he played football.  After high school at age 17, Jerry joined the Navy and fought in WWII.  After the war, he earned an Associate Degree from City College of San Francisco.  In 1947, Jerry and his father Harry (Pops) started H. Goldman & Son Plumbing Company in San Francisco.  He also obtained his journeyman’s card as a Local 38 Plumber & Pipe Fitter.  In the following years, the company would become a well-respected plumbing company with over 100 employees.  Jerry retired in 1977 at the age of 51 and became a member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers.  He began his second career as a plumbing consultant to many of his competitors, sharing his knowledge of estimating, design and his favorite task of “detailing”. 

When he was not consulting, you would find him jogging around Lake Merced, playing tennis at Westlake Park, golfing at Harding Park, and playing hand ball in Golden Gate Park.  In his early years, he was a member of the South End Rowing Club where he once swam across the Golden Gate from San Francisco to Marin.  He was your ultimate fitness fanatic, continuing his regime into his 90’s, only being forced to quit at the onset of Covid when the gyms closed.  

In addition to his busy professional life, Jerry and Bette enjoyed travel to Mexico, France, Italy and Tahiti.  They also vacationed with Family at several Club Meds over the years.

The most joyful part of his life was spent owning and maintaining several boats over the years.  He spent many years boating in the SF Bay and Delta with his family.  Boating was his “happy place” where he could relax from the stressful days of the plumbing industry.  Jerry and Bette solo navigated several voyages to both Mexico and Alaska.  Between the long cruises the couple enjoyed Predicted Log Racing on San Francisco Bay with many other boaters and friends.  He also spent many years salmon fishing from his boat out the San Francisco Gate - which he has chosen as his final resting place.

The family will hold a private memorial service to celebrate his life.

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