Notice: This article is more than one year old and is part of the Henry Ford College news archive. Information in the article may be outdated. For the most current news and information about Henry Ford College, please visit hfcc.edu/news, or contact communications@hfcc.edu.

Celebrate the life of Rick Goward on April 30

Event Date
-
Location
Student & Culinary Arts Center (Bldg. M)
Celebrating the life of Rick Goward.

A Celebration of Life for emeritus HFC music professor and administrator Rick Goward will be held Saturday, April 30, from noon to 3:00 p.m. in the Student & Culinary Arts Center (Bldg. M) on the main HFC campus.

Goward passed away on Jan. 29 at the age of 70. He is survived by his wife Andi and their two daughters, Erin and Emily, and grandchildren, Lennon and Harrison. His teaching and conducting career spanned more than 45 years, 40 at HFC. During his time at the College, Goward, an alumnus of Central Michigan University and the University of Michigan, turned the music program into an international success.

Memorial service schedule

This memorial service, which will begin at 1:00 p.m., was organized by retired HFC music professor and administrator Randy Knight, a longtime colleague and friend of Goward. Knight will share a few words about him as will several other former colleagues and close friends.

Next, Goward's daughter Emily Goward Davis, an HFC dance instructor, will narrate the film called “Growing Up Goward.” This will be followed by a tribute by the HFC Big Band, one of several music ensembles founded by Goward.

“He will be missed by so many people, especially his family,” said Emily. “When you think of ‘The Big Guy,’ we hope you think of him with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. We know he is conducting the greatest Big Band in Heaven.”

Masks are not mandatory but are encouraged. Seating is limited, so please arrive early.

The Rick Goward Scholarship

In honor of Rick Goward and his many contributions to the HFC community and the greater Dearborn community, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Rick Goward Scholarship at Henry Ford College.

How to donate through our secure website

  1. Go to the HFC Foundation website donations page
  2. Select amount you wish to donate.
  3. Under "Apply gift to," select "Other."
  4. Enter "Rick Goward Scholarship.”

How to donate by check

  1. Make checks payable to Henry Ford College Foundation.
  2. Note "Rick Goward Scholarship" in the memo line.
  3. Mail to Henry Ford College Foundation, 5101 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn, MI 48128.

For questions or more information about the memorial service, contact Emily Goward Davis at eedavis4@hfcc.edu.