Having completed God’s call, Pastor Harry Goh, who with Kathleen, his wife, founded The Garden church, went to be with his Lord on September 28, 2021.
Born in Singapore and raised in Calcutta, Harry returned to India after attending university in America. He married Kathleen and began their family. Having moved to England, he was invited to bring his young family to Bakersfield to plant a church in 1962. Without any promise of financial support and trusting only in God for provision, he established the Bakersfield Chinese Church in his home and then built and extended the first church campus at 2010 O St. This congregation became the Bakersfield Community Church and is now entering its third generation as The Garden Bakersfield. Harry was a pastor of great faith, devoted prayer, and intense study of Scripture, who sought to walk in God’s Spirit. Many lives have been stamped by his character, values, and love of God. Harry retired in 1995 and enjoyed conversations about God and also holistic health approaches, gardening, and many meals and fishing trips with friends. He was a man sent by God, who experienced God’s faithfulness until his final breath.
Harry is survived by children Karen Goh, mayor of Bakersfield; Dr. David Goh, co-lead pastor of The Garden and wife Janelle; grandchildren National Guard Captain Jordan Goh and wife Faith, Hunter Goh, and Annalise Payne and husband Graham; brother Charles Goh and many nephews and nieces along with their families.
Following a private internment, a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 15, 11:00 am at The Garden, 900 22nd St, Bakersfield, 93301. All attending are invited to a lunch reception immediately following the service in the ballroom of the Marriot Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. Advanced reservation for the reception is requested by Tuesday, October 12. RSVP by email to HarryGohReception@gardencc.org and please include the name of each person in your party.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Pastor Harry can be made to “The Garden – Harry Goh Memorial Fund.” Gifts will be utilized towards supporting the ministry areas closest to Pastor Harry’s heart. Mail checks to The Garden 2229 Q St, 93301 or text “thegardengive” to 1-833-662-6783. Click on the link and choose Harry Goh Memorial Fund in the drop down.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Goh family.
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