Canisius College lost a dear colleague on July 18 when Professor Emeritus James J. McGoldrick, PhD, passed away. He was 89.
James spent nearly four decades at Canisius, teaching Russian (up until 1970) and German language, culture and literature. He achieved emeritus status in 2001.
James is best remembered for fostering German-American relations through his exemplary involvement and inspiration in the twinning of Buffalo and Dortmund in 1977. He introduced an exchange agreement between Canisius College and the University of Dortmund in 1980 and soon after, secured internship opportunities for our German majors in Dortmund. Innumerable German and American students, from both cities, took advantage of this unique opportunity.
For his efforts in advancing the friendship between Germany and the United States, James received the “German Federal Service Cross on a Sash” (“Bundesverdienstkreuz am Band”) in 1987. It was conferred upon him by Germany’s then-president, Dr. Richard von Weizsäcker.
James McGoldrick is survived by his wife, Rita, and six children. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. today, Wednesday, July 27, at St. Mark’s Church located at 401 Woodward Avenue.
Requiescat in pace.
Submitted by: College Communications
