GLOUCESTER: Alfred S. Goscinak, 63, of Gloucester, owner of the Schooner Appledore III, died peacefully in his sleep at home on 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 Bachelors 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 RJ White all of Framingham.
His memorial service will be held in the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester on Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1 – 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.