Obituary of Hal Hyatt Goldberg

In Loving Memory of Hal Goldberg

October 29, 1948 – April 19, 2025

Hal Hyatt Goldberg—beloved father, grandfather, husband, brother, friend, therapist, pun-master, and eternal student of life—passed away peacefully on April 19, surrounded by love, at the age of 76. His was a life filled with purpose, laughter, wisdom, and service—a life that lit up the lives of so many.

Born on October 29, 1948, Hal was the kind of person who made you feel better just by being near him. His energy was big and bright, thoughtful and silly, wise and curious. He was deeply human in all the best ways—flawed, funny, open-hearted, and endlessly loving.

Hal was married to his first great love, Sandi Fay West Goldberg, until her passing in 1991. Their love story and the family they built remain a cornerstone of his life. In 2004, he married Melissa Waggoner, his second great love, and was fortunate to experience deep love, joy, and partnership once again.

Professionally, Hal served as a school psychologist and grief therapist, helping countless individuals navigate the complexities of being human. He brought a mix of insight and empathy to his clients. Hal’s service didn’t stop at his career. For 16 years, he proudly volunteered with the Jackson 105 Fire Department, showing up for his community with the same calm competence and compassion he brought to every part of his life. He continued volunteering throughout his life, giving his time and heart to organizations like Mayflower, the Post-Polio Support Group, A Little Help, and more. He believed strongly in contributing and giving back to the community. 

Hal was a charismatic man who loved fiercely and laughed loudly. He had a lifelong affection for puns (the worse, the better), a deep fondness for word games, and an almost suspicious level of skill with crossword puzzles. He could turn even the heaviest moment into something lighter—not by ignoring the pain, but by honoring it, and gently inviting humor in as a friend.

Spiritually, Hal was a seeker. He believed in the power of love, human connection, and the great mystery beyond this life. He often said that what matters most is how we love and how we live—and he did both with an open heart and a generous spirit. He showed up, again and again, with kindness, integrity, and presence.

To his children, he brought huge heart, open arms, and a soft place to land. To his grandchildren, he was a magical mix of steady and silly. To his friends, he was a source of laughter, counsel, and authenticity. And to everyone who knew him, Hal was a bright light.

Hal is survived by his wife Melissa; his children [Shauna Goldberg and Alyssa Swall]; his step children [Jessica (Brad) Dawgert and Max (Molly) Segall]; his grandchildren [Layla, Eli, Vivienne, Oslowe, Julie, Emily, Olivia and Boyer]; his sister [Debra Goldberg]; and a circle of extended family, friends, and chosen family who carry his memory forward with love and laughter.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, April 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Temple Emanuel Denver. Livestream by Temple Emanuel.

To honor Hal, please volunteer your time, call someone you love, or hug a family member a little longer than usual. Extra credit if you make them laugh through tears—Hal’s favorite kind of moment.

He left this world as he lived in it—with grace, warmth, and deep love. His legacy is not just in his contributions, but also in how he made people feel: seen, understood, and unconditionally loved. May his memory be a blessing and a light.