Richard Godden

OSWEGO COUNTY – Richard Godden, 61, of Minetto, passed away on July 24, 2025, with his loving family by his side.
Born in Oswego, he was the son of James C. Godden and the late Marlene “Kay” (Fresch) Godden.

Rich joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 328 in 1983. He worked as a journeyman wireman for Local 328 and later Local 43. He went on to supervise and run small and large jobs as a foreman, general foreman and project manager. Rich retired from IBEW Local 43, as the Assistant Business Manager, in 2021, after 38 years of service. He loved his community and devoted many hours to charitable organizations. Rich was an officer of the Oswego County Building Trades, served on the Electrical Board for the City of Oswego for several years and volunteered for the United Way. Rich had a lifelong passion for golf and looked forward to golf outings with his friends. He was a long-time member of the Oswego Country Club and served on the Board of Directors for several years. Rich also organized the annual Craftbash Golf Tournament between Electricians and Pipefitters for 30+ years. He also loved playing basketball and played for the Press Box in the men’s city league for 30 years. He was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and loved all SU sports. Above all things, he adored his family. Rich was a loving husband, father, brother, and great friend.

Rich is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Deborah (Meade) Godden, daughters, Rachel and Jessica Godden, father James Godden (Linda Sawyer), brother Robert (Kathleen) Godden, sister Jeanine Godden (Fred Ferguson) and brother Samuel (Marcia) Godden-Graham. He is also survived by nieces Laura (Christian) Alvarado, Nicole (Kendall) Shrum, nephew Zachery (Chloe) Meade and his devoted golden retriever, Lila Mae.
Calling hours will be held from 4-7 PM on Tuesday, July 29th at the Nelson Funeral Home.

Funeral Service for Richard will be held at Oswego Alliance Church on Wednesday, July 30th, at 11 AM. Burial will be in Hannibal Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Rich’s name to Hospice of CNY, 990 7th North St, Liverpool, or Peaceful Remedies, 41 Lake St., Oswego.

Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.

Print this entry