Steven Grant Goram's Obituary
Steven Grant Goram, a loving husband, father, and mentor to many passed away quietly in his sleep on December 17, 2018 in Coppell, Texas, at the age of 59. He was born in Dallas, Texas, to T.J. Goram and Ruby Lee Whatley Goram. He was married to his bride, Cathy Lynn Fowler Goram, for 41 years and was a very proud Conservative Texan.Born of modest means, Steve grew up in Coppell and helped to build his childhood home. At age 16, Steve was in the rodeo and competing in bronco riding, where he met his bride to be Cathy, 15, a barrel racer. They soon started courting and were married on November 19, 1977. They had two daughters, Constance and Alisha.Steve had a love for history and for higher education. After attending Coppell Independent School District, he earned an Associates Degree of Arts and Science, Bachelors of Science Business Management, as well as a Masters of Business Administration. He enjoyed his studies from Le Tourneau and Dallas Baptist University. His favorite framed artwork that hung in his office was a copy of The Constitution and Sesquicentennial Map of Texas from 1836-1986. He and his wife were fortunate to travel to all 50 states, and were able to accomplish many things on their bucket list together.Steve Goram was a man of extraordinary determination for public-minded service. As a young teen, Steve dug ditches for the City of Coppell, working his way to important leadership positions at the City of Coppell. He was hired on with the City of Coppell on February 6, 1978. He was the 6th employee to be hired for the City of Coppell. He served the City of Coppell as the Director of Public Works, Assistant City Manager for Technology, and was called upon to be acting City Manager. When Steve left the City of Coppell after 23 years of service, he became City Manager of Princeton, Texas. He did so because of his love for community service and guidance in developing another fast-growing small Texas town. He honored his fathers wishes, and became a Master Mason. He was raised at the Grapevine Masonic Lodge #288. Later, seeking further Light, he received his 32nd degree from the Scottish Rite Temple in Fort Worth, Texas.Steve was a friend and mentor to all who knew him. He helped many co-workers and friends to achieve their goals. He recognized, supported, and gave opportunities to those showing a willingness to work hard, providing a path to achieve leadership roles. Steve was known for his friendliness, low-key demeanor, and loyalty, with a shrewd commitment to carefully protect taxpayers from waste and abuse. Lou Duggan, former Mayor of Coppell, commented that Steve was completely trustworthy and could be counted on to deliver what he had committed to, although his public mindedness could clash with other whom he felt were not looking out for the public interest. Many can remember him asking in his thick Texas drawl, “Now tell me what happened, but don’t lie to me because I’ll find out.” Years after leaving his position, he would still meet with close friends left behind, often at a good BBQ place, or send them brownies to remind them of the close ties he still felt toward those who worked with him.After retiring from local government service at age 44, Steve continued to serve as an active member of the Republican Party, as a Precinct Chair, Election Judge, and Convention Delegate from 2004 up until his passing. He was an early supporter of many conservative candidates, long before others jumped on a bandwagon, and would continue that support, regardless of fashion. He was also a stalwart supporter of police and firemen. The day before his passing, he and Cathy were near his grave site giving honor to loved ones and others on National Wreaths Day. Steve’s last service act was on Saturday, two days before his passing. His most beloved relationships were with his Savior Jesus Christ, his wife of 41 years, and his two daughters.He is survived by his best friend and wife, Cathy Fowler Goram, daughter Constance Nicole Goram Stanton and his grandson, Stone Cash Stanton, as well as his siblings, Barbara Womble, Janice Blackmon, Donna Toiberg, Mike Goram, and Toni Smith Kilkenny. Along with numerous nephews and nieces as well as many cousins. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Alisha Beth Goram and his parents, T.J. and Ruth Goram.Visitation is from 6 to 8 PM on Friday, December 21, at Restland Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. A funeral and burial service is planned for 3 PM on Saturday, the 22nd of December at Restland in Dallas, Texas.
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