Joshua Goldberg

Joshua N. Goldberg, 95, passed away October 5th, in Madison, Wisconsin, after a brief illness.  He is survived by his two children, Miriam Goldberg of Madison, and Zachary Goldberg of New York City.  He was married for 67 years to Gloria Gerber Goldberg of Syracuse, NY, who preceded him in death in 2016.

Joshua was born in Rochester, NY, the son of Isadore and Rose Axelrod Goldberg.  He was a graduate of the University of Rochester in 1949, following a stint in the U.S. Navy from 1944–46.  He received a Ph.D. in physics from Syracuse University in 1952, then conducted research in General Relativity at Armour Research Foundation in Chicago and at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio.  He continued his research as a professor of physics at Syracuse University from 1963 until his retirement in 1995.  He served as chairman of the physics department from 1976–79, and maintained a close relationship with his colleagues there as an emeritus professor until moving to Madison in early 2020.

Apart from his professional work, Josh was involved in a variety of community activities, especially as a supporter and board member of the Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music.  He was also a supporter of Syracuse Symphony, later Symphoria, and the Society for New Music.  He enjoyed swimming and sailing, and was a member of the Skaneateles Sailing Club.  Frequently active in politics, including opposition to the Vietnam War, he contributed regularly to a variety of organizations related to peace, justice, and education.  He and Gloria traveled extensively, particularly after his retirement.  They were avid collectors of artwork, with a special interest in art glass in later years.  He was also a member of two book groups in Syracuse.

He is remembered as a wonderful mentor, collaborator, and friend by former colleagues and students.  Likewise, those who met him through his various social activities formed fast friendships with him, and described him as thoughtful, good-humored, generous, and warm.  The members of his family, including nieces and nephews and their now-adult children, recall him as an important and cherished presence in their lives.

Contributions in Josh’s memory may be made to the Krasner fund of the Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music, PO Box 215 DeWitt, NY 13214.