Alfred S. Goscinak
March 26, 2008
GLOUCESTER
— Alfred S. Goscinak, 63, of Gloucester, owner of the Schooner Appledore
III, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. He
was the husband of Laura (Gardner) Goscinak.
Born in Cambridge on March 23, 1945, he was the son of the late Alfred and
Lillian (Bykowski) Goscinak. He grew up on the Fenway where he developed his
passion for the Symphony and the Red Sox. He started playing violin at age 4
and was considered a musical prodigy performing at many events in Boston as
a young man. After training at the New England Conservatory of Music, he
received his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Boston College
and a subsequent master's degree from Tufts University.
With his fascination of the Civil War, it was only natural that he would be
the founder of the 5th Massachusetts Battery Group in 1964. With over 40
years of re-enactments, parades, encampments, cannon shoots, and a tradition
steeped in history, it is thriving today. Through his tireless efforts and
expertise, he was always willing to share his knowledge of Artillery,
tentsmithing, cooking, sailing or beer brewing with his many friends.
After 28 years of professional service, Al retired from teaching elementary
school to start a new career consistent with his love for history and
maritime tradition. Al and his wife, Laura moved to Gloucester in 2000 and
soon after purchased the Schooner Appledore III which operates sailing trips
during the summer season from Tuna Wharf in Rockport. Al's lifelong passion
for wooden boats, smiling faces, and the coastal lifestyle, culminated in
the purchase and operation of this schooner, which brought much joy and
satisfaction to the final years of his life. Al's family and friends join
together in saying on his behalf "8 Bells, sailor. Your watch is over!"
In addition to his devoted wife, Laura, he is survived by his sons, David
and Jonathan Goscinak of Charlestown, his brother Rick Goscinak of Everett,
his wonderful aunt, Geneva Bykowski of Somerville, his loving stepchildren,
Lisa White of Manchester, UK, Robert, and his wife, Carrie-Ann White, and
stepgrandson, R.J. White, all of Framingham.
ARRANGEMENTS: His memorial service will be held in the Pike-Grondin
Funeral Home, 61 Middle St., Gloucester, on Thursday at 3 p.m. Visitation
will be held prior to the service from 1 to 3 p.m. Relatives and friends are
cordially invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, contribution may be made in
his memory to the Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum, P.O. Box
277, Essex, MA 01929. For further information and to send online
condolences, please visit
www.grondinfuneralservices.com.
