Bernard Arthur Gould

Bernard Arthur Gould

1934 – 2025

Bernard Arthur Gould, 90, of Roseville, CA, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025. A proud San Franciscan, he entered the world in 1934 at San Francisco’s Children’s Hospital, born to parents Myron Cyril Gould and Ann Hayward Gould.

Bernard’s early years were marked by adventure and leadership. He attended Walter Hayes Elementary in Palo Alto, earned the rank of Eagle Scout with San Francisco’s Troop 17, and graduated from Lowell High School in 1952. There, he excelled as a four-sport letterman and All-City track and field athlete, clinching the City championship in shotput during his senior year.

He continued his education at Menlo College, where he served as student body secretary, competed in football and track, and joined the Marine Corps Platoon Leader Program. After transferring to San Jose State University, he graduated with a degree in Political Science in 1956 and remained a devoted member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity. In 1957, he married his wife, Ann Rice Gould.

A decorated Marine, Bernard was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the USMC Reserve by his brother, Gerald Gould. Following nine months at the USMC Officer’s Base School in Quantico, VA, he began his distinguished military career at Camp Pendleton with the 5th Marine Regiment. He earned a regular commission in 1958 and later commanded a Hawk Missile Battery with the 1st Marine Air Wing in El Toro, CA. His service included deployments to Cuba, the South Pacific, and the South China Seas during Cold War-era campaigns. After resigning from active duty in 1966, he continued his commitment through the Marine Corps Reserve, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Post-military, Bernard built a career in technology and media, working at American Micro Systems, Coherent Lasers, and United Press International. He remained deeply connected to his community, volunteering with the SJSU Alumni Association, Spartan Foundation, and Semper Fi Association, and serving on the board of Toys for Tots.

Bernard’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his sister, Ruth Kipnis; brother, Gerald Gould; daughter, son Scott Gould (Linda) , daughter Gretchen Wirth (Tom); grandchildren, Megan Wirth, Brad Wirth (Lacie); and great-grandson, Warren. For 17 cherished years, Bernard shared his life with his beloved partner, Sharon Nagel, whose steadfast love brought him deep joy and companionship. Together, they traveled, golfed, and embraced life’s simple pleasures, creating memories Bernard held close to his heart.

An avid golfer and master storyteller, Bernard loved hosting gatherings to relive tales of his extraordinary life. He will be laid to rest with military honors at the National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. A service date will be announced. Bernard’s legacy of loyalty, service, and devotion to family will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in his memory to the Semper Fi Association or Toys for Tots.