Obituary of Erol Ahmet Goktuna

Erol Goktuna, age 68, of Bethlehem Twp., NJ, passed away Friday, August 5, 2011 at home. Erol was born January 7, 1943 in Istanbul, Turkey, the son of the late Mumtaz and the late Vartuhi (Pehlivanyan) Goktuna. Erol received his Masters of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from Robert College of Istanbul and continued his education at Newark College of Engineering (now NJIT). He worked for Siemens Fire Safety Division in Florham Park, NJ as Manager of Engineering for Testing, Quality, and Approval. He also worked for Siemens in Cherry Hill, NJ; UNISYS in Flemington, NJ; and Burroughs in Piscataway, NJ. Erol loved his family and the natural beauty of Hunterdon County. He enjoyed his raised flower beds, container gardening, and growing herbs on his deck. Feeding and watching hummingbirds in summer was a special pleasure, and he enjoyed all the bird feeder activity in the winter. Woodworking and photography were also hobbies, and a wide range of music enriched his life. He grew up playing soccer in Turkey, and he coached both his children in township recreational soccer leagues. Erol thought the world of his coworkers and so appreciated the many kindnesses shown by neighbors and friends. He really admired a job well done and people doing their best, no matter what the task. Erol is survived by his wife Marilyn (Bator) Goktuna; his children Mark, of Bethlehem Twp., NJ and Katharine, of Chicago, IL; his sister Sema and nieces Melisa and Yasemin of Istanbul, Turkey. He is also survived by relatives in Canada. Special thanks to Dr. Myron Bednar, Luke, and all of the dedicated nurses and staff at The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center for their kindness and care. There will be a Memorial Gathering on Tuesday, August 9th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at the Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ. The Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. In Lieu of flowers you may make memorial donations to The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822 or to the charity of your choice.