Kevin Michael Goza

Kevin Michael Goza died October 31, 2021 at his home unexpectedly in Merced, CA after a brief illness. Kevin was born on January 6, 1971, to Joanne and Daryl Goza. Kevin spent his whole life in Merced, and attended Ada Givens and Hoover Jr. High. He graduated from Merced High School in 1989 where he excelled as a natural athlete; he thrived in baseball and football. Kevin achieved too many athletic accolades to list; however, as the quarterback of the 1988 football team, he led the Merced Bears to the NorCal Championship and a #6 ranking in the state, the best record for Merced High at the time. His baseball teams also took home numerous championship titles. After high school, Kevin attended Merced College, and played baseball and football there as well. He also assisted in coaching the Merced High JV baseball team.

Kevin married Julie Morris on September 30, 2000. Their beloved son Karson Goza was born in 2006. Most recently, Kevin has been passing down his athletic passion to his son, and has supported the community by coaching his flag football and little league baseball teams. Kevin knew everything there was to know about the San Francisco Giants and the 49ers and never missed a game. He also loved fishing, golfing, boating, camping, and traveling, especially to see his brother Keith in San Diego. Kevin loved hanging out in his mancave with family and friends, watching sports, and enjoying his favorite beer.

Kevin was preceded in death by his mother Joanne Goza, his father-in-law Jim Morris, and his aunts, Sharon Larsen and Jan Ivy. He leaves behind his wife Julie, his son Karson, his father Daryl, his brother Keith, mother-in-law Ruth and many uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, dogs, and cats.

Kevin will be deeply missed for his kind heart, sense of humor, and fun-loving nature. A celebration of life will be held at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home at 1490 B. St., Merced, CA 95340 at 2:00 pm with a gathering immediately following at 726 Sunol Ct., Merced, CA 95348. In lieu of flowers, contributions to an educational fund for Kevin’s son, Karson, can be made at, or mailed to, West America Bank at 490 W. Olive Ave., Merced, CA 95348. Please deposit funds into the account of Julie Goza fbo Karson Goza.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stratfordevansfunerals.com for the Goza family.