After a long and fulfilling life, Richard Albert Goldbach passed away peacefully at home at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, generosity, and love for his family, community, and country. In his later years, Richard found deep satisfaction in all he accomplished and often reflected on a life well lived.

Rich served as Chief Executive Officer of Metro Machine Corp. for 34 years, where he conceived and spearheaded one of the most successful Employee Stock Ownership Plans in the country, distributing more than two hundred million dollars in benefits to his dedicated team. Over nearly 57 years in the shipyard industry, he managed the construction, modernization, maintenance, and recycling of hundreds of U.S. Navy ships. Rich graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from Webb Institute in Glen Cove, New York, alongside his identical twin brother. He was later awarded an honorary doctorate from Webb and throughout his career Rich was awarded numerous patents for shipyard processes and recognized for his business leadership.

Rich and his wife, Janet, were active members of Duck United Methodist Church during the many wonderful years they spent in Duck, North Carolina. They generously donated the funding and designs to build the Clinton Memorial Chapel at the church, a special place where both of their children were later married — a lasting testament to their love for family and community.

Rich was known not only for his leadership but for his generous spirit. He gave freely of his time and resources, including his dedicated support of the Southside Boys & Girls Club in Norfolk, Virginia — a reflection of his deep commitment to helping young people thrive.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 65 years, Janet Clinton Goldbach; his identical twin brother, Rob (Dorothy); his daughter, Kristen (Larry); his son, Rick (Vicki); his beloved grandchildren Jared, Janet, Katherine, Amanda, Sarah, Hunter, Hudson, and Trevor; as well as his extended family of nieces, nephews, and their families. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Charlotte Goldbach, and his older brother, Franklin.

He will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, his generous heart, and the love and wisdom he shared with all who knew him.

The family wishes to thank Sentara Hospice Care for their compassionate support, and a special thank you to Rachel Glinke for her devoted care and many selfless hours spent with Rich and Janet. The family is also deeply grateful to John Strem, a close friend and former co-worker, for his invaluable advice and steadfast support over the years.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Monday, September 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Luke's Historic Church, 14477 Benn's Church Boulevard, Smithfield, Virginia 23430 with Rev. Chris Tidwell officiating.   In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's memory may be made to the Southside Boys & Girls Club in Norfolk, Virginia, or to Webb Institute in Glen Cove, New York.  Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.