1945
2017
Our hearts weep as we announce the passing of Goldy McJohn, Founding Father of Steppenwolf. Goldy suffered a sudden and fatal heart attack the morning of August 1st, 2017. The family thanks all of those who have protected their privacy leading up to this announcement while they dealt with this unexpected loss.
Information regarding services will be announced as it becomes available. However, Goldy's next performance was to take place at a benefit concert honoring legendary drummer, Alvin Taylor, with good friends Terry Ilous, and Harold Brown among others. It is at the very core of his wife, Sonja's beliefs that Goldy would have wanted this show to go on. This concert, in full agreement of all participating, will now also stand as a tribute to Goldy and the indelible mark he has left on the world of Rock and Roll and the lives of all those who knew and loved him.
Goldy had been an active and enthusiastic mentor for Stand Up for the Music, working closely with HungryGenius managing partner, Anthony Spadaro.
"Goldy was an amazing soul and an incredible artist, and just plain fun. May his legacy live on forever." - Anthony Spadaro
"I connected with him immediately, may his transition be smooth." - Harold Brown
"Long live rock and roll. Love you Goldy." - Terry Ilous
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 19, 2023
Other
Alan B. Winter
I am entering this way after Goldy left for that big B-3 in the sky, but I just wanted to chip in. I was just learning to play the organ when I heard Steppenwolf (Goldy in particular)....and knew I had to get that sound, and try to emulate Goldy. So, I sold my Vox Continental, and got a B3/Leslie. Great sound...but I still didn´t sound like Goldy. So, I studied his chops and overdrove my Leslie...that sounded a bit better. It wasn´t until I saw Steppenwolf for the first time that I caught a glimpse of his technique. He had machine gun chops (I later read that John Kay called him kangaroo because of how fast he hopped on keys.
Years later, I stumbled on a chat site...and lo and behold, it was Goldy. So I sent him a message. And he returned my message very gracefully, and was a pleasure to chat with. He told stories of how he got that sound because of a blown driver in his Leslie that became his signature sound (even though he didn´t play a Hammond on the first album)...how he got "mislead" out of a lot of money...about playing in several bands in the Seattle area...etc. I said maybe I´d fly up to meet him, and he said "cool...see you then, Doc". Alas, it was not to be...
Goldy, may you rest in peace, knowing just how many young keyboard players you positively affected. You had a distinctive sound that no other B3 jockey ever emulated.
July 14, 2021
Maybelle Mabry
Wow, this paragraph is good, my younger sister is analyzing these kinds of things, so I am going to convey her.
March 9, 2018
Friend
Earl (skip) Cooper
Goldy, thanks for your inspiration towards the keyboards. Your sound made it an easy choice to learn the keyboards. I was lucky that have had the chance to get to know you later on in life and to enjoy getting to know you and hearing your stories. I have played some of your music in every band I've been in, it's not R&R without it. Play hard and loud on that big stage.
November 7, 2017
Dean Lester
Goldy was a huge influence along with the other members of Steppenwolf in 1970 when I first played the Live album. After many years of playing bass, due to a spine condition I switched to keyboard because I could no longer strap on that bass. I wrote to him via his facebook page and he replied to me, giving me the encouragement to continue on. Thanks to you my friend for providing me the music and inspiration. Hope to see you on the other side sometime.
September 4, 2017
Tom Roaddog
I played Steppenwolf all day today in honor of the Goldster. R I P my friend......
September 4, 2017
Friend
sandra Fritz
August 22, 2017
Diane Greenlee
I saw him in 1972 in Sacramento. Saw and met him in 2016 and took pics. The most exciting time of my life. He was so personable and he got to sit on my husbands beautiful BigDog motorcycle which Goldy loved! I've kept those memories close to me. My heartfelt condolences to Sonja and his family.
August 22, 2017
Diane Greenlee
August 17, 2017
Dave Ohlson
Loved his music in Steppenwolf, I remember listening in 68 tosookie sookie, and his playing blew me away. Was a fan ever since. Really blown away to hear he passed away. Was able to send some messages thru Facebook and he responded. God bless your family in this difficult time. He touched a lot of people!
August 12, 2017
May "The God of all comfort" be with the family at this difficult time.
2 Cor 1:3
August 11, 2017
Don Lambirth
I got to know Goldy at my job. He was a customer and I always looked forward to seeing him when he came in. I loved listening to his stories and sometimes he'd bring me a CD of his latest projects. He was very personable. Always wanted to know how my family was doing. I loved hearing him laugh. I told him that my family and I were doing an outreach in the Philippines and helping families in the dumpsites and he brought me a box of toys to give to those kids. That meant so much to me. I was at his birthday party last year and it was such a treasure to watch him playing music. You could tell that it brought him such joy. I will really miss him. Sonja, I am so sorry for your loss.
August 11, 2017
Friend
Sandra Colby
My first musical remembrance is sing to Steppenwolf
August 10, 2017
Christian
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Goldy. Rest assured life is precious to our Creator. He promises to act in our behalf.
1 Corinthians 15:26
August 10, 2017
Matt Logsdon
Goldy,We had a lot of fun talking.I will miss you Bro..Rock On!
August 10, 2017
Matt Logsdon
Goldy ...We had a lot of fun talking.I will miss you Bro..Rock On....Matt Logsdon
August 10, 2017
born to be wild is the memory of my high school years the 70's! there is a keyboard up there with his name on it. He will play and never faint.......... jeanine
August 10, 2017
McJohn Family, Friends,
Please accept our condolences and prayers on the passing of your dear loved one. We w remember his music.
August 9, 2017
Wendy GB
Who can deny the great tunes of "Born to be wild". Music that makes us vibe with energy is the best medicine for the mind and soul! May we rejoice together that on our Almighty Heavenly Father of tender mercies will bring the new world where we will be together. (2peter 2:19)
August 8, 2017
Jon Barrett
I was 10 years old when I bought Monster-and my life has never been the same!
August 8, 2017
Maria M.
His great playing of the organ will live on forever in Born To Be Wild, Magic Carpet Ride, Desperation, etc. I loved Steppenwolf when they came out in the 60's and still do today.
RIP, A Fan
August 8, 2017
CC.
To the MCJOHN FAMILY in their time of grief, I'm truly sorry for your loss. May 'God' give you peace during this most difficult time.
-Romans 15:13
August 7, 2017
LES SCHOENBERGER
So very sorry to hear of Goldie's passing, Steppenwolf will be my favorite band forever, his organ was such a crucial part of their sound, may he rest in peace but I think that he and Jerry will be pulling some pranks like the old days!
Thanks for the great music, prayers and love to the family, so so sorry....
August 7, 2017
Glenn Coggeshell
I was in total shock to hear Goldy McJohn passed away. (Eh) I was lucky to have known him as a friend even play a few tunes with him. He was such a talented player, writer and the greatest thing I personally will miss is his laugh. See you in Heaven brother and I will bring COFFEE.
August 7, 2017
Linda Cox
Your keyboard talents will always be your legacy. You were a rocker to the end. It has been many years since seeing you at your Dad's funeral. Our thoughts are with your family. Far too young to leave this world. Your cousin (Rose and Scotty McFarlane's daughter). Linda Cox
August 7, 2017
Victoria Wood
August 7, 2017
Cheryl McClellan-Brown
August 7, 2017
Al
My condolences to Ms Sonja & family. May God grant solace to the family during this most challenging time. Goldy will be truly missed. He will be remembered for his amazing music.
August 7, 2017
My condolences to the family and friends. May our Creator, the God of comfort give you his peace to endure your loss.
August 7, 2017
Lynn Grandin
I can't believe this!! Goldie was always so full of life and such a character!! It sounds like he went quickly, which I believe was a blessing for him. He had too much energy and vitality to hang around and linger on- I just don't think he would have tolerated that well.
Goldie, I'll always sing your songs in my bands, and remember your amazing fingers on the keyboards as they danced about with those fancy rings sparkling. And I'll always remember your quick witted sense of humor as we bantered and punned about.
My sincerest condolences to Sonja Goadsby, and to Goldie's family and friends!!!!
August 6, 2017
Debra Damon
RIP Goldy you will be missed dearly you were a great friend and a wonderful husband. Sonja was very lucky to have a wonderful and kind man as you were. I will always keep you in my heart and my prayers. Rock on Goldy
August 6, 2017
To Goldy's Family,
Just learned of his passing today. A true musician and innovator of the music revolution of our time. Play long. Play free Gordy. Peace and go easy.
A fan.
August 6, 2017
I grew up in that Era of his Music . Is gone way too Soon
RIP in Music Heaven .
Susie Hess Gr. Mich .
August 6, 2017
Magic Carpet Ride is one of my favorite Steppenwolf tunes. I bought their first two lp's because their sixties sound had depth and easy to listen to, great engineering and production. It was not the "whining guitar for ever San Francisco sound" of the times. I also bought their 16 greatest hits lp and cd. Their music was heard daily in Vietnam down in Saigon area. Memories of my 20-23 age! May God comfort his family with love and hope!
August 6, 2017
SA S
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Goldy McJohn. I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. May the Father of tender mercies be with you during your time of sorrow.
August 6, 2017
celeste
August 6, 2017
SING ON IN HEAVEN
We are still listening down here to the greatest tunes of ole times! Magic carpet ride brings back memories and when it comes on the radio in my car I turn it on blast! All the songs made great summer music from back in the day to present.
RIP
A FAN FROM WAY BACK
August 6, 2017
Kc Carnes
Great music great sound in teenage years,you heard at every party or in stores in Det. Mi.
August 6, 2017
Hamilton Family
May the McJohn family cherish their many memories of John, and may our Almighty Father comfort and carry you in the days and months to come (Isa.41:10).
August 6, 2017
Just thinking the other day about the great music made by the great bands of the 60s and 70s including Steppenwolf..No one today ever comes close today..
August 6, 2017
CJ
I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of Goldy. May the peace God gives be comforting during this time.
With sympathy,
August 6, 2017
Ron
He rocked the keyboards. My sympathy to his wife. Rest in peace, Goldy.
August 6, 2017
Denise Pressnall
You will be missed..met you at my dad's guitar shop.will always remember you!
August 5, 2017
Valenda Newell
GREAT, GREAT CLASSIC MUSIC..everytime I see a VIETNAM movie one hears the song "MAGIC CARPET RIDE" alot of memories for me in my early teens around 1969. ROCK & ROLL BABY!! GOLDY u gave the world the best music and I'm so glad I got to enjoy it in my youth as one's music still remains with me in later years.......MANY MANY BLESSINGS
August 5, 2017
Mare B
I still love to be surprised when I hear the familiar songs, and I loved the music for the times...appreciated the transformations music like this could have on me.
Thank you for being part of.
Mare
August 5, 2017
Larry Yatsko
I have always loved the music of Steppenwolf. I saw the band in concert in Pittsburgh, Pa back in 1967. Great Show. Loved the sound of the Hammond B3.
August 5, 2017
one of the best keyboardist o all time rest in peace goldy bp
August 5, 2017
brad goldstein
Love that band, great music, still listen to it today cruising in the Roadrunner.
August 5, 2017
Freddie Rhett
August 5, 2017
Lakes at Leesburg Residents
Please except our condolences and may God bless From residents of LAKES AT LEESBURG ,LEESBURG, FL.
August 5, 2017
Benson
Believe it or not Born to be Wild was a song that you could hear in my 96 year old mom's house. I remember when my mother told me to go to the record store to buy Born to Be Wild in the 60s. Of course, I played it over and over as I do songs I like today. To Goldy's family may you have peace and strength from friends who are there to listen. "A true friend listen" Proverbs 17:17
August 5, 2017
mary Thornhill
Was a teen in Ontario who loved Steppenwolf's music. Had the album. Saw you in Edmonton in 1982. Great show!
Rest in peace, Goldy.
August 5, 2017
Beverly Howell
I extend my deepest condolences and prayers to Goldy's friends, family & fans. Thank you for the music.
☮
August 5, 2017
Sandra Levin
Rusty was old friend to me, my late husband Drake Levin and our friend Tomasso. Rest in Peace Rusty!
August 5, 2017
James Murphy
RIP. You made a great contribution to the body of rock music.
August 5, 2017
Doug S
I heard Magic Carpet Ride for the first time when I was 8 yrs old in the early days of summer of '69. It was coming from a high school graduation party out in the woods about 1/4 mile from our new house "out in the country." I just couldn't fathom how they powered those amps and speakers with no electrical outlets! Some things you never forget! Goldy's signature Hammond B3 sound drew me in and I still to this day have a love for rock-organ music. I thank Goldy and band mates for creating one of my all-time favorite memories. Rest in Peace Goldy!
August 5, 2017
Dwaine Johnson
My Sincere Condolences to Goldy McJohn's Family and Friends. Steppenwolf was a great band. Born To Be Wild is a classic Biker song. I loved the sound of the organ, and the implementation of the other instruments..... R.I.P. Bro.....
August 5, 2017
carol burnett
RIP Goldy !!!
August 5, 2017
Jerry B
You invented heavy metal. Thank you. RIP
August 5, 2017
Jane Dowling
God bless you and your loved ones ~ I will always remember your music.
August 5, 2017
Truly saddened to hear of Goldy McJohn's passing. His fine legacy will surely be remembered. I hope to meet him in Paradise! (Luke23:43)
August 5, 2017
Darlene
To the family and friends of Mr.Goldy
McJohn my sincere condolences on the
loss of your dear loved one.
Thank you so much for lending us your husband as we enjoyed his music and he
took time away from his home and family
to entertain us.
May the words at John 6:44 give you
comfort at this difficult time.
August 5, 2017
Ann M Stokman
August 5, 2017
Steve Davis
Goldy...R.I.P...You will be missed!
Prayers to your wife and family!
August 5, 2017
Sharon Della-Monica
My Deepest condolences
August 5, 2017
Brian
You're part of the soundtrack of my youth. R.I.P. Goldy.
August 5, 2017
This is so very wierd another short time member of Steppenwolf also died Tuesday. Tim Carroll died in his sleep. Survived by his son Adam Carroll lead guitarist of War Bringer
August 4, 2017
Keith Wright
Rest in peace, grew up on you guys, you sir,will be missed.
Keith Wright
August 4, 2017
Thank You John for every thing you have given the music industry..... Having first met you in 1968, I felt fortunate to have known both you and your music......My favorite line from you was "NO Flash Bulbs"" , and we complied ! May God Bless You and those of us, especially Sonja, that You left behind.........Your eternal memory lives on in Your music,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
August 4, 2017
Dave E
Liked your music, Rip
August 4, 2017
Tom Nath
Steppenwolf has become part of my soul from the beginning to today. McJohn and this band has helped me through some tough times and will until I leave this rock. Thanks Goldy.
August 4, 2017
Very sad loss of a classic rocker. R.I.P.
August 4, 2017
B. Simpson
You were such a real cool dude! The world is going to miss you. Rest in Peace.
August 4, 2017
Goldy's keyboard work was an integral part of Steppenwolf's signature sound, which stood out in a nonpareil period in music history. Thank you, Goldy, and Rest In Peace.
August 4, 2017
Charlie Gregory
I have been a fan of Steppenwolf from the 60's I remember buying one of my first 8 Track tapes of Steppenwolf. "Born To Be Wild", "Easy Rider" and "The Pusher". "Ear Splitting Loud And Boomer" must have been "The Hippo Stomp". Who could forget "The Magic Carpet Ride". I saw Steppenwolf in Ruidoso, New Mexico. I still have my Steppenwolf Guitar Pick and the Scarf that I bought there. We will miss you Goldy McJohn.Thanks for the Music of Steppenwolf !!!
August 4, 2017
B H
My sincere condolences to the family of Mr. McJohn. May God comfort you each day. Ps 86:17
August 4, 2017
Rob "Gator" Kendrick
August 4, 2017
JOE GILLETTE
saw him play in Scranton Pennsylvania john k was not there but they still were good R.I.P,
August 4, 2017
Terrell Holling
My condolences goes out to his wife Sonja.
August 4, 2017
Still get a thrill listening to his music. The louder the better.
August 4, 2017
Steve Cochran
So sorry to hear about Goldy passing.Thanks for the great music.You R free at last !!!
August 4, 2017
Acquaintance
Tommie Caudell
Hate to see you go, Goldy. Steppenwolf has always been a great band, but never the same as when you were a member. Thanks so much for sending me birthday wishes last year. I will never forget that. I voted for Steppenwolf's induction into the Rock N Roll Hall of fame over and over again. I believe you all deserved it, and I am sad that you did not live to see that happen. Blessings and strength to your family. RIP
August 4, 2017
Polly Hammer
We will miss your music and great laugh, that love of life ! R.I.P
August 4, 2017
Saw him in the 70's. None better. Rest in peace
August 4, 2017
P
So sorry to hear of your loss
May God grant you the peace needed during this time
My prayers are with you as we all wait until the time when death and pain will be no more
August 4, 2017
Stan Tate
Thank you for taking a moment out of your very busy schedule to wave me down and talk at the HD party in Fife. That was a very special few minutes that I will never forget. Keep on rockin my friend and we will see each other again my friend!
August 4, 2017
beverly davies
loved there music still listern too old time rock androll sorry for youre lost
August 4, 2017
Linda Tracy
August 4, 2017
Scott Chamberland
Rest in Peace
August 4, 2017
Adrian Barnette
We'll miss you !
August 4, 2017
D. V.
Sorry for your loss. I grew up listening to Steppenwolf. Great band! Rest in peace
Goldy.
August 4, 2017
Sandy
RIP Goldy Gosh it doesn't seem that long since your big Birthday party at the Hard Rock Seattle It was a fun night.. Thank You for the music, I loved it! You and your Family are in my thoughts and Prayers....
August 4, 2017
Cheryl Landin
Mrs. Sonja, I am sorry for your loss. I know you will miss him very much.
I have always loved his music, they were good "cleaning up" songs when I was a little girl and good "just relaxing and hanging out songs" as a grown up.
My prayers are with you always. May he rest in peace.
August 4, 2017
Mike
A great guy... Met Goldy as a teenage audience member at the 1975 NBC "Midnight Special" taping in Burbank California... Godly would talk to us during taping breaks.... We remarked about his "Fro"....he said there were Bugs in it ! We all laughed !!! Great guy.... Thanks for your spirit, Goldy !
August 4, 2017
Marc McNew
I first met Goldy at wolffest, he was the very funny an friendly an one of the coolest guys I have ever met, I'm a big fan of his , he is going to be missed by all, My prayers an thoughts are with his family . RIP Mr . Goadsby
August 4, 2017
Dale Beaver
Goldy, you will live on forever through your music, which is timeless. As a keyboard player, your classic playing style with the Hammond B-3 and Leslie has probably influenced me more than any other musician - ever! Rock On Forever... you will be greatly missed.
August 4, 2017
Mandi Wood
Hugs
Gonna miss seeing you.
Rest in Paradise Uncle John ❤❤❤
Hugs and kisses to Grandma and Grandpa too
August 4, 2017
Ken O.
August 4, 2017
Dear Sonja, other family members and friends I am sorry for your loss of Goldy. May the hope that God's word gives us for those we lost in death be comforting, faith building and encouraging to you (John 6:40) ~ Linda, Queens, NY
August 4, 2017
Patty Bieggar
I got to meet Goldy at Jano's house party. He was a great man so sorry for your loss my prayers and love.
Showing 1 - 100 of 164 results
Funeral services provided by:
Yarington's/White Center Funeral Home10708 16th Ave Sw, Seattle, WA 98146
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more