Virginia Beach —Dr. Ira Gould passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014, at the age of 94.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Frances Ruth Lasting Gould, his children, Robin, Bruce (Jennifer), and Randy (Natalie). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Aaron (Jennifer), Lindsay, Josh and Clay.
He was born in Brooklyn, N. Y. on March 12, 1920. He graduated from Samuel Tilden High School and Long Island University, where he played on the basketball team. Ira was a lifelong athlete and played basketball and softball in the Navy. He was an avid tennis player late into his 70s,and he loved to golf.
He was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy in World War II and subsequently entered the V12 program. He graduated in 1944 from MCV School of Dentistry, where he also served on the faculty. Ira had a distinguished Navy career and was a Veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He had fond memories of serving with Captain Arleigh Burke on the USS Gilmore.
He settled in his wife’s hometown of Norfolk, Va. after his naval service. Ira practiced dentistry at his Wards Corner office until the age of 78. He volunteered for many years at the DePaul Dental Clinic and the Florence Crittendon Home for Girls. He was very engaged in his community and served as president of the Norfolk Federation of Civic Leagues. He also served on the Norfolk Public Library board. He and his wife and daughter were very involved with the Military Order of the World Wars and the Reserve Officers Association. He served as ROA national Dental Surgeon. Ira, Frances and Robin traveled extensively after retirement and they attended many NATO reservist meetings overseas.
Ira was a member of the Tidewater Dental Association and served as its president. He was a recipient of the Richard F. Simmons award in recognition of extraordinary contributions to the Association, the dental profession and the general community. He was a fellow of the Virginia Dental Association, where he served as a state delegate for many years. He was also a fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, The American College of Dentists, and the International College of Dentists.
Ira was a kind and gentle man, and a precious child of God. He lived a full life because of his servant mentality. He never said an unkind word about anyone. He always offered those around him words of hope and encouragement. He was adored by his family, his friends and his patients. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. ”
A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Gifts of remembrance may be made to the Eastern Virginia Medical School Foundation or a charity of your choice.