In Memory of Mr. Gouker…

He was the best. -Yamen Yaseen

Also, we heard about Mr. Gouker’s passing and are deeply saddened.  Mr. Gouker was instrumental in helping with Austin’s gradual reintroduction to school over the past two weeks.  Our condolences to you and the entire Penn Staff & Faculty. –a Penn Parent

 

Mr.Gouker was my dean in 2013 /2014 . We had so many memmories together ,but the last one was the friday before he passed. I was doing a science project for 2 cakes one was chocolate and one was confetti and he had to taste witch one was the best. Before i even had him try them he told me chocolate . when i handed them to him, he said this is for me ! with a big smile on his face it made my day . We had our times. But i will never for get all the good ones he was a great man and a great dean. -Kelli Stevens

 

I had Mr. Gouker for 7th and 8th grade math at Schmucker. He was one teacher that has always stuck out in my mind, not just because I had him as a teacher for two years, but because he was a teacher that made a lasting impression on me. He was always positive, had a great smile, loved golf and coaching, was always very encouraging, took the time to get to know each student, and he was also very patient (I happened to test this on a regular basis by talking way too much when I shouldn’t have been). He would just look at me a certain way with a huge grin on his face and I knew I’d better be quiet. The thing I remember most about Mr. Gouker was that he always told me that I could do anything that I put my mind to and that if you’re going to shake someone’s hand, to look them in the eyes and do it with a firm grip. You will be missed, Mr. Gouker. Many prayers for you and your family…rest in peace. -Megan Gerstner (formerly Shimer)

 

He always told me to smile when he passed me in the hallways. Once, he even sat with me during lunch to keep me company and gave me a Chik-fil-a coupon as a Christmas present. -Joy Turley

 

He was always hard on me. But for a reason. He pushed me into graduating early. He always told me I was a great student. You will truly be missed. -Kiara Forrest

 

 

I remember they (his wife too) were real good enthusiastic teachers who just had their first child when I went to school at Schmucker and there was a prank war going on between Mr Garrets Business/Typing class and Mr Goukers class right next door. However it happened he and his type of teaching are what we need more of and we lost a great one. -Eric Lockwood

 

I had Mr. Gouker for accelerated math at Schmucker Midldle School. English had always been my forte but that year I preferred math class by no small margin. Mr. Gouker had a big smile and a big heart. He taught with enthusiasm and fun. He was approachable, warm, encouraging, and comforting. I remember he would share some family stories and I could tell how proud he was of his daughters. He let students use his microwave at lunch, citing an appreciation for sandwiches where the cheese was melted just right. I still remember fondly the order of operations song…and so does my mother. My heart goes out to the family. -Elizabeth Anstak

 

John Gouker was a great man, dedicated to his work each and every day. He possessed an incredible passion for what he did, consistently following up on students or working through a problem. I had the honor to interact with Mr. Gouker on a near-daily-basis, whether he was greeting me in the hallway (as he often did), helping to pick up the cafeteria on my lunch duty, or working with me and my concerns regarding students. I regularly said “Hi” to him as we arrived to school each morning and “Bye” as we left each day’; I will miss that. I am deeply saddened by his death and feel that Penn will be left with a great void in his absence. -Jeanie Mitchell

 

I didn’t exactly know Mr. Gouker well and I was never in his office for anything serious. I knew him because of Schmucker and then at Penn. We would briefly talk at lunch or in the hallways though. He was always talking to students and it was obvious to everyone that he put all of us before himself. I was lucky enough to talk to him two days before his passing. I was supposed to talk to Mr. Fry but he was busy at the time and Mr. Gouker didn’t want me missing much of my class so he talked to me. We talked about the mess of a parking situation at River Valley Church lately. He knew I didn’t mean to get in trouble for parking and wasn’t tough on me. I will never forget the last thing we talked about. He asked if he could help me with anything else and then asked about college and what I was majoring in. We talked about nursing and his daughter being in college already. I thanked him for talking to me and I’m very glad I got to talk to him that day. Penn High School will never be the same without his laughter and jokes. My prayers go out to your family, you will be missed by many. R.I.P. Mr. Gouker.  -Kayla Chase

 

Mr. Gouker was always a great man and always made sure the students as well as myself were as safe as we possibly could be. I am very sorry to hear about this loss and my prayers go out to his closest penn staff as well as his family. -Kaylee Higginson

 

Well, I arrived at Penn last year, I found that Mr. Gauker was always around and on the job. I didn’t know him well, but I know that Mr. Gauker has been of great help to Penn, its students, and its staff. My prayers go out to his family and those who knew him well. He was a great guy, and surely one to remember among the PHS community. It’s a shame I never got to know him better. -Kevin Assis

 

I couldn’t have asked for a better dad! Seeing these posts has made me realize that God must have needed him up there. He changed so many lives for the better and will forever be my hero. I can’t wait to see you again in heaven someday <3  -Sarah Gouker

 

His visits to Staff Dining always brightened my day. I loved hearing about his daughters lives. Such a proud papa and wonderful man. -Barb Wenger

 

Man where to start. Through getting in trouble in middle school I was always in his office, he was so hard with discipline.. and looking back I could not thank him enough for it. The older I got the more respect I developed for Mr. Gouker for the harsh punishments and advice. Rest in peace. -Jeremy Ewald

 

I didn’t really know John at first, but after a while, I got to know him and I could tell what an all-around awesome guy he was to everyone. You could tell, just by talking with him, that John was a guy that loved his job and his family. We always would talk when he was picking up Emily at track practice or when he would show up to root her on at a track meet, I always enjoyed our conversations. He was the type of guy that would go out of his way just to help someone when they were having a bad day or an issue that needed resolving. We, the people at Penn, are lucky and blessed to have known someone as good and caring as John, as not many people are that caring of other people and take the time to get to know others. I am still in disbelief that this is happening, as we just talked two days ago, and now it seems crazy that he’s gone. He’s touched a lot of lives throughout his career here at PHM, and I feel that we are all blessed to have known such a caring, wonderful and selfless guy such as John. Heaven has definitely gained a great angel up there who will be missed greatly by those of us down here. RIP John, you will be sorely missed and we will miss you greatly!! Thank you for being the remarkable person you were, there’s a permanent hole now at Penn that will never quite be filled the way that you did when you were here. -Morgan O’Grady

 

People like Mr. Gouker — with great personalities, patience, and a kind heart — are born to teach and influence students. He made math fun for all of his students at Schmucker Middle School and it was apparent that teaching and interacting with students was his passion. My heart goes out to all affected by this tragedy. He will always be remembered as a foundation to PHM and he will be greatly missed. -Kayley

 

He was always a great teacher and administrator, rest in peace. -John Fenton

 

Mr. Gouker was my math teacher in the 8th grade in 2003-2004. He was the first math teacher that I had that made class fun and enjoyable. He taught us all the famous PEMDAS song to the tune of “O Christmas Tree,” he taught us reciprocals by literally calling on the smallest girl in class and picking her up and turning her upside down, he just made the classroom a fun and comfortable place. I had always wanted to be a teacher, but Mr. Gouker was the reason why I considered being a math teacher. The end of this year will be my 2nd year as a high school math teacher in Indianapolis. I will always be grateful to him, and hope I may be just as inspiring as he was to us as students. -Melissa Florit

 

John Gouker was a fine athlete and a better person. He cared for others and truly loved what he did. He made every day exciting, whether it was a practice or a game day. I was very fortunate to have known John, and am deeply saddened by his passing. He was such a great football player in college. I watched him be responsible for all 28 points we scored in a game. He rushed for a score, threw a TD pass, caught a touchdown pass and returned a kick for his last score. Talk about a busy night! I think he could have kicked the extra points if we needed him to. Amazingly, he was still the same guy after that game as he had been before, joking and laughing with his teammates, just enjoying people. We will always remember him, our prayers go out to Lisa and his family. -Scott Downing

 

I’ve known Mr. Gouker since fifth grade at Walt Disney Elementary. I had a lot of respect for him. Everytime he would walk pass me at Penn and see me smile, he would say “nice to see your smile.” He was such a nice guy. I’ll never forget Mr. Gouker. He was an inspiration to me and everyone. He was a great leader and person. He will be missed by so many people. -Natalia Baiz

 

Mr. Gouker was a caring math teacher at Schmucker Middle School, when I was attending in the late 80’s. I graduated in 91′ and remember Mr. Gouker as a teacher who really cared about his students, always making sure everyone had a chance and would never give up on any child. Mr. Gouker not only taught us math, He taught us how to become better students by showing kindness, and making every single student part of the classroom. He respected his students. He showed by example and took the extra time to help any student. He will be remembered as an excellent teacher who helped so many. Thanks for all you did to make us better students. -Angela Smith

 

i didn’t know mr. gouker well, but once i was having a bad day and he randomly complimented me on my shoes. it was just something silly, but it turned my day around. -Kendall Sharpe

 

Student 2009. In eighth grade I had Mr. Gouker as my math teacher. He was very outgoing and most people really liked him. He taught in a way so that many students, like myself, could understand. Such as the Order of Operation. I, like many, will never forget the Order of Operation because he taught it in a tune. It went along to Oh Christmas Tree. He will be truly miss. I reach out to his family and loved ones. I know that he has truly touched many hearts.  -Meg Green

 

It’s with great sadness. My heart and prayers go out to John and his family. John is an awesome guy who loves kids and believes what is right. We will miss John immensely, and I know this sadness will be overcomed by God’s eternal love. John left a legacy of what it means to be a caring and compassionate teacher and leader. It’s people like John who makes others better at their craft. Thank you John for stepping into my life. God bless you and your family  -Thom Andreae

 

I spoke to John on the phone on Friday. He called to check in on a student that I have in class who was transitioning back to Penn after being out for many months with medical issues. John’s ability to handle such a large and diverse student population with ease always amazed me. His dedication to Penn High school and the success of students was unmatched. His positive effect on the PHM community will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family. Rest in peace John.  -Bill Leather

 

Mr. Gouker was my middle school math teacher. He helped me to see that math was actually something I was really good at doing- until his class my grades hadn’t showed that. He was such a wonderful teacher who inspired his students to do better. I am so sorry for his family’s loss. He was a great person.  -Stephanie Sommers Karpicke

 

Mr gouker was a nice guy he used to joke around with me nd ask me how I was doing ppl said he was mean but I didn’t think so he was a cool guy rip my prayers go out to you nd your family.  -Justin erhardt

 

I had Mr. Gouker as my 7th grade Football coach and 8th grade math teacher. I could tell a few stories but here’s one that sticks out it my mind: Everybody that ever has had Mr. Gouker as a math teacher will remember him singing his problem – solving opera song called ‘The Order of Operations’. On the first day of school he would put the tape in and sing along at the top of his lungs. Well, over the course of the year a couple of us thought maybe he was playing the song a little too much so we planned a prank. We took the cassette tape home one day when he wasn’t paying attention to make it a remix! The next day, one of us played dumb to get him to play his favorite song for the billionth time. This time he got the lyrics wrong…. “Parentheses are number one! Then exponents must be done! (Transition) I like big butts and I cannot lie! You other brothers can’t deny!!” Needless to say he wasn’t pleased as he took the tape out and stomped it to pieces! I never got the chance to fess up to it after all these years, so here it is! Those who had Mr. Gouker have to admit he may not have always been the nicest of teachers and he was always tough on the football field, but as an adult looking back, he did as much for me both mentally and physically than any teacher ever has. He was a great man, and he will be truly missed. R.I.P. Mr. Gouker! God Bless You!  -Jameson Knowles

 

Mr. Gouker A truly amazing man who did not judge a student from his or her past but tried to be positive and help them press forward to achieve goals for our future. A guy that would give students chances knowing us humans are not perfect. Someone that was easy to talk to and would give firm, but experienced advice on what to do and how to handle things. Mr. Gouker was there for me on a few occasions and I am forever grateful to have known him as a in my opinion a true leader in the Penn school system. I personally was and am a student that looked up to and respected his Advise and direction and he will be missed by my peers. God speed Mr. Gouker for you will receive your rewards for your great works in heaven.  -Jordan

 

I’m deeply sadden by the passing of my beloved 8th grade math teacher. I remember and today this day can still sing the order of operations song he taught us. I’ll never forget the day we learned about improper fractions, he flipped a student upside down (all in good fun of course) and he also taught me something I still use to this day, how to line up my work when solving algebra problems. He was tough but fair when it came to showing your work, and he was right, it really is more simple to solve problems when your work is neat! My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and former students during this time. I wish I would have stopped by to see him after graduating so I could thank him in person for the knowledge he bestowed upon me. I have a feeling though that now he knows just how much he taught us all, and how much we all appreciate it. Thank you Mr. Gouker and may you rest in peace.  -Amu Garl

 

I’ve know him since 6th grade, he was my 8th grade year track coach he pushed me to be the best I could be. My freshmen year was a little screwy but he was there to help me, I came into Penn two weeks late and what did he do he got me into the sport I’ve always wanted to play and that was football. This past week before he past away I just talked to him because my brother was having issues. Last thing I remember him saying to me is I’ll always forget how to spell your last name. I was like haha I know I always left his office in a great mood he always put a smile on my face. He was my go to guy for every issue I’ve ever had. I wish he could have seen me get through high school. -Logan Page

 

Mr.Gouker took care of things on the bus and I am happy he helped me with things for school troubles. I am sadden the fact we lost a great person at Penn. Prayers go out to his family.  -Christen Sullivan

 

It was my freshman year when i first me Mr. John Gouker. He changed me and im glad and thankful for that. Most people don’t like the deans but i can say Mr Gouker was an awesome man, he was always there when something needed to be done, and was good at his job, it will be very sad and very different with out him there. RIP my friend, and my prayers are going out to your family ______ | | | | | | _____________| |____________ | | | Rest IN PEACE | |_____________ Mr. ____________| | Gouker | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |_______|  -Annonymous Person

 

I was expelled but he gave me a second chance and enabled me to finish high school with a core 40 honors despite my horrible addiction. -Nate Urban

 

Even though Mr. Gouker and I never saw eye to eye, inside, I knew he was something good. I hope he rests in peace, god has gained a powerful person. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. -Zach Walker

 

I did not personally have San experience with Mr.Gouker, but I did witness him go out of his way to talk to my girlfriend (Amanda Ross) when she was going through a tough moment with one of her friends. I will always remember that about him that he did always care about the students at Penn.  -Justin Sommers

 

Mr. Gouker was a great guy always looked out for me and kept me in line and out of trouble and would get me out if i did ive known him for 7 years and i tell you that he was an amazing man and was the same guy as me inside and funny.All i was wanting to do at the end of this year was come in and see him and tell him thank you for being there for me through my good and bad and turned me into a great guy and tell him life was going great and he would of loved to hear that.He will be very miss now he can watch over his loved ones and protect them.  -Ian Slabach

 

I didn’t have him as a teacher,but my daughter goes to Penn. I believe he taught at schmucker when I was there god bless him and his family. -Kim Bailey

 

I worked with Mr. Gouker at SMS he will be remembered as being a very welcoming face every time he walked in the school in the morning stopped to say hello with a smile on his face, also went out of his way to stop and make conversation, I know he will be missed by many . R.I.P. John Gouker  -Brenda Howey

 

Mr. Gouker taught me math at Schmucker when I was a 7th grader…circa 1988/1989. He was a die hard golf fanatic & used golf references to teach us math. He was my 7th hour teacher…final class of the day. He made an impression on my life. I was a decent student, fairly intelligent girl, though math was a bit harder for me than all my other studies. He captivated my attention & I did well in his class. My oldest daughter is a junior at Penn & whenever I went to Penn for activities, Mr. Gouker always chatted with me. He was a good guy. When my daughter was at Schmucker, he was a principal there, then came to Penn around the same time my daughter started Penn. Anyway, my heart is heavy & I am thinking of his family, friends, students & faculty at Penn as they grieve his death. He was an asset & will be missed for years to come. Thank you, Mr. Gouker for teaching this young girl math, with enthusiasm & entertainment to help me learn it. Love always, Charissa Young (Morris) -Charissa Young formerly Morris

 

Will never forget singing the order of operations math song with mr. Goucker during 8th grade lunch at sms. Great teacher and great man. -AJ Barrett

 

Mr. Gouker was my first track coach at Schmucker Middle School. He pushed me and my other teammates to perform our best on the track and off, and is the reason I would continue to run at Penn High School, often asking how I was. He would casually say hello with a simple nod in the hallway, and would crack jokes that were cheesy, but nonetheless, made me laugh. I remember earlier this year, Mr. Andrea and Mr. Gouker played a prank on a student in class, making everyone laugh, showing his true colors. He was a man I respected. Penn will not be the same, and many prayers will be given for him and his family. May he rest in peace. -Zach Buzalski

 

Wonderful teacher! He was always so enthusiastic and lively. You always knew you could come to him with a question and he would try his best to help you understand. He was a caring and kind hearted man. He will greatly be missed. -Tifanie McDaniel

 

I have known Mr. Gouker for many years. His family and my family have been very close friends for a while. I will never forget having dinner with him and how he would always invite my family and I over to the Gouker’s house in the summer, to swim and have cookouts. Mr. Gouker was such a great man. Prayers go out to Emily, Sarah, and Mrs. Gouker. –Ashlee

 

He was always so nice!! Saying hello to me when he saw me!! He always smiled and in high school a smile means a lot when your having a bad day… Thank you and rest in peace you will be in my prayers!! Amen! -Varvara Iuston

 

Mr. Gouker was a wonderful person. I didn’t visit him much in the Dean’s office but I saw him in the halls a lot. And every time I saw him, he would smile and always ask how I was. I have a lot of respect for him. Penn will never be the same without you. My prayers go out to Emily and her family. Rest in Peace Mr. Gouker. We will miss you. -Elly Calhoon

 

I didn’t know Mr. Gouker very well, but I do remember him coming to my lunch table last year and talking to my table (“Guess how old I am!” he said). He was nice to the girls at my table. The last time I talked to him was about a week ago. I wanted to go outside to film something for PNN, but I needed permission from a Dean; Mr. Gouker is the one that gave me permission. It was cold out that day, and there was ice on the ground. He told my partner and I, “Have fun, but please be careful.” No, he didn’t know me very well and vice versa, but he was concerned about his students’ well being. R.I.P. Mr. Gouker. -Victoria Erdel

 

What an amazing guy! He truly cared about the students. He took time to understand them and to help them. Thoughts and prayers are with the family. Mr. Gouker will still be there in the halls of Penn High School. -Brandy

 

At first we didn’t get along because I was a trouble maker. But once I’ve changed and was pregnant we got along had a bond and always asked how I was doing in the halls. Yes he may have been strict but that was his job. He had a heart for all us even though nobody thought so. Mr.Gouker RIP you were a good man. RIP Mr. Gouker -Kaley Kempet

 

I worked with John Gouker for many years when he taught math at Schmucker. I always remember him having a calm, even demeanor when dealing with kids. I remember that he had a classroom with an interior window in it, and he also had a small storage room where he kept his coffee maker. I enjoyed working with him. My heart goes out to his wife and daughters. -Judy Scarbeck

 

Very sad! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and PHM students and coworkers! -Cindy Sudlow

 

I remember Mr. Gouker would walk to our lunch table with such a serious look. We would always be like, “Oh gosh, are we doing something wrong!?” Then his face would break into a smile, and he would joke around with us for a few minutes. He would leave our table in fits of laughter and move to the next table to do the same thing. He was always like that — respectable, personable, and hilarious. -Kelly Fox

 

I had Mr. Gouker for a math teacher at Schmucker Middle School. I have a handful of memories of Mr. Gouker, but a few stand out to me the most. My father chaperoned a field trip (water watchers) and I can remember the two of them talking at the front of the class room when another student came up and tapped my dad on the shoulder and called him Mr. Gouker. I hadn’t thought about how much they looked alike until that point. They both had a good laugh at the situation. The first semester of the class we had assigned seats according to our last names. He led us all out of the class room at the start of the second semester announcing that we could pick our own seats, but that statistically students that sat closer to the front of the room earned better grades. When I let everyone go in before me, he asked me why. My response was that I was going to get the same grade no matter where I sat. He was impressed enough with my comment to share it with the rest of the class once we all had found our seats. Lastly, he’d often talk about his family as well finances. It was obvious how much he loved his children. I try to practice his advise on finances and family every chance I get. -Phillip Burbrink

 

Mr. Gouker was someone who was always on the job if u needed something he was there it’s just sad to see him gone R.I.P my prayers go out to his family. -Austin Ullery

 

Just last Saturday Mr. Gouker was in Ft. Wayne at IU to watch his daughter compete in a track event. As he and his wife left to make the trip home, he stopped and took the time to talk to me and shared his respect for me for taking the time to drive the bus on a weekend. He knew I had been driving for many years and asked to to “Hurry home safely because he wanted to make the game later that night.” I told him I’d do my best and his last words to me were, “I know you will Terri, you always do.” Our community has lost a Wonderful Dictated Man who will be sorely missed, Thank You John Gouker -Terri Byers

 

Once, I had a driving lesson after school. A driver from Frick’s came to pick me up, and Mr. Gouker stopped us on his way out. He took the time to say hi to the driving instructor with me, and he told him thank you for helping his own daughters learn to drive. Mr. Gouker wished me good luck before going about the rest of his day. I will always remember him as a person who took the time to show interest in the lives of individual students. He truly loved his job, and the students at Penn High school. -Allison Schoenfeld

 

Mr. Gouker was my math teacher at Schmucker. He was a professional, unless the moment called for the necessity to briefly step out the role, albeit a brief second. It was appropriate. A classmate of mine was reciting the karate kid “wax on, wax off”. So Mr. Gouker had him erase the blackboard in such fashion. That is a fond memory I have of him. He was firm, but fair. Sir, you will be greatly missed! -Matthew Hutsell

 

When I was in middle school at Schmucker, Mr. Gouker taught me a song about the order of operations to the tune of “Oh Christmas Tree”. To this day, even in college, I still sing that to classmates who forget the order. Also in middle school, he always sang Elvis’ “Hound Dog” at lunch. I never hear that song without thinking of him acting goofy, and it makes me chuckle every time. -Katie

 

I am shocked and saddened at this news. John was a beautiful guy, and a wonderful, positive presence at the school. He loved working with the students and staff, and always had a joke or encouraging comment for me and everyone else he interacted with. My very deepest condolences to Emily, and to everyone in the Gouker family. -Scott Thompson

 

I’m a graduate of Penn high school so I’m no longer in the loop of information around here but when I found out from my sister about his death I just couldn’t believe it! He was always really nice to me and even though he was pretty serious, I managed to get him crack a smile each time I saw him. Beneath his tough exterior I knew there was a warm hearted man. My condolences go out to his family and close friends. May he rest in peace. -Kourtney K.

 

So sorry for loss -Shannan Radics

 

When I was at penn I had been in a lot of trouble, when I met Mr. John Gouker he got my to think and in reality if it was not for him, let’s just say my life would be very different and very bad. I am glad that he was in my life and changed my life greatly. Thank you John. -Matthew McNamara

 

John was a pretty intense fella on many levels – from the way he organized his pen collection, to the way he made it a point to try his darnedest to be everywhere in the school at once, to the way he could scare the pants off of a student and earn that student’s respect in the same emotion, to the way he talked about doing things with and for his family, to his obvious passion for our 3600+ kids. I say our kids, because in the “Deanery” they aren’t just students. As our little running joke goes, each kid in our alphabet is one of our “step kids” and we joke about it daily – “Hey John, your step son was just in here to see you..” And even though we joke about it, they really do become our kids. We care about them like we do our kids at home, and I know how much John loved all of his kids, because you could see it in everything he did. He was unable to go five minutes without thinking about them. He had a story for everything and every event had a teachable moment. His passion for everyone else’s lives took an obvious toll on his own. I know we couldn’t have stopped him if we tried, because we tried our darnedest to get him to slow down and take it easy on that ticker of his. We all consumed so much of his big heart, that it simply couldn’t take on any more. His biggest dissappointment is that he won’t be able to take his family to Florida for Spring Break. He talked about it since Christmas Break, and how nice it was going to be to give his wife a nice vacation, and make memories with his girls. When a student came in regarding a boyfriend or girlfriend issue he would always tell them the story about how he met his wife, and how they have been together ever since – and that they will just “know” that they are with the right “one” because they’ll just “know” when that right one comes along. He and I were dubbed DAD & LAD by Brenda and Andrea because we were always together, running radio calls together, and even though I’m a 40 year old father myself, he was always trying to teach me the right way to do the job – just like a dad would. It drove me nuts sometimes, but I had a special love for the guy. He was the perfect man for his job, and it will take several people to make up for his absence. I’m not sure we’ll realize just how involved he was until we go back to school next week trying to get along without him. He will be missed by all of us. -Dave Falkenau

 

My thoughts and condolences go out to all of Mr Gouker’s friends and family. Mr Gouker was a teacher during my tenure @ PHM and he always seemed to have a great ability to spread happiness throughout the student body with something as small as a simple smile. Thank you for all of your years of service. Rest in peace Mr Gouker! -Marc Stone

 

Although I only had the pleasure of working with John for the past week, I have had conversations with him about things – mostly the boys basketball team. He always had a friendly smile and was always pleasant to me. He will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers to the Gouker family and the Penn family, both lost a loved one. -Debra Kimm Donohue

 

It’s with great sadness. My heart and prayers go out to John and his family. John is an awesome guy who loves kids and believes what is right. We will miss John immensely, and I know this sadness will be overcome by God’s eternal love.  -Thom Andreae

 

I met John Gouker about 5 years ago and I instantly liked him. He was a man who loved his wife and children. He is my neighbor and I was able to witness his compassion and love for those close to him. He never hesitated to help us with anything, from yanking bushes to snow blowing the end of our driveway. I love the Gouker family! I am going to miss seeing John and I am going to miss seeing his family so happy! John, you are with our Heavenly Father now, please watch over your family; they are hurting tremendously right now. With love to Elisa, Sarah and Emily, we are here for you and love you tons! With a heavy heart, Sara Masterson

 

I wish the PHM family could have kept John Gouker with us a while longer. As a parent, I appreciated his skill as my son’s teacher and coach. As my colleague at Schmucker Middle School, I appreciated his devotion to students and his expectation that all children reach their potential. When he was assistant to the principal at SMS, I observed his quiet, caring conversations with students that were also laced with discussions about personal responsibility. John loved kids, and he took the time to show them that he cared. He was so exceptional that almost every time I saw him in the halls I would say, “Thank you, John. You are making a difference. I want you to know that.” My heart is heavy today. My heartfelt prayers for his family. -Cheryl Luers Dittmer

 

Everyday at lunch he’d have to walk over to the table and tell his not to do something because we were constantly doing something we were not suppose to. He’d say “Now I’ve never met such lovely ladies that get in trouble everyday” “cool it” or “if you guys throw/whistle again, you might have to see this face a little more often than you’d like” he’d be there almost all lunch. We will for sure be missing someone at the table, and no one will fulfill the seat like him. -Paige Sizemore

 

Mr. Gouker would always call me a sweetheart and would jokingly ask me what he should do with all the people that push others in the hallway, he was a great man..-Haley

 

I will always remember the order of operations. He was and still is one of my favorite teachers. -chris manor

 

I first met Mr. Gouker in 7th grade at Schmucker. He was the best math teacher I could think of. You could tell he enjoyed his job. His countless stories of golf..The birth of his 1st daughter..and of course, the BEEP game. I saw him years later at a bank, and he recognized me!! Oddly enough..I had married his 2nd cousin…As I told him, I would somehow find a way to “stalk”him. (I was one of the class smart allecs). I will remember him fondly. My sincere thoughts, prayers, and strength for his family. God bless you and RIP! -Kristi (Hampton) Gouker

 

I loved Mr. Gouker he helped me in math class. Cowboys and Indians. R.I.P. you will be missed and never forgotten. -Erin Shewmaker

 

He helped me with some of my problems I had at home and at Penn. He told me stories of him as a child and he shared his memories with me to help me get through tuff times. I was doin dumb things at the time like skipping classes and he lectured me about why school is so impotant and i dont want to let those lectures and all his help to go to waist. He was nice man all around and he gave everyone who wanted it or not his help I know he is in a better place now. R.I.P  -Chandler

 

Mr. Gouker was my math teacher at schmucker. He was my favorite teacher. He taught us his order of operations song… Which I went along to teach my 8th grade students when I became a math teacher myself. I didn’t keep in touch with him and always wanted to tell him thank you. He taught me so much and will be missed. -Megan Niespodziany

 

Irreplaceable. -Mark Watts

 

This guy…this guy right here..great man first time I ever met him he sat down with me for 2 hours and help me with my English paper that was due the next morning only teacher/dean that did that…awesome guy -Jamie Rajski

 

Mr Gouker changed my life in algebra. He took the time to help me understand math and helped me finally pass it with a A-…..this is devastating news. RIP. Prayers and condolences to his family.-Kaitlyn Bosquez

 

If it weren’t for the help of Mr. Gouker and another student, I would have been stuck in an awful position for a very long time. His help throughout High School means more to many of us than we ever lead on, and he knows that now. -Lexie Foster

 

So sad to hear about this. He was a great teacher and new how to put a smile on someone’s face. I will always remember how to do integers with his Cowboy’s and Indian’s. Prayers go out to the family! -Kelsey Tingle

 

My memory of Mr. Gouker was from having an accelerated algebra course with him during my seventh grade at Schmucker Middle School. My heart goes to his family and friends. This man was a one of a kind guy, who gave me so much confidence in myself as a student. You will be missed. -Gabrielle Schaefer

 

I always struggled with math until he came up with a song about the order of operations.that was 8 years ago and I still use his song til today.one of the best math teachers I’ve ever had when he taught at Schmucker. -Derek Frey

 

Parenthesis are number 1, and then exponents must be done, you multiply annnd divide, add subtract from left to right! This is how the oorrdder of operations is done! Now lets do some math and have some fun! I will remember that song for the rest of my life and for that I thank you, fair winds and following seas. -Ron Hurstel

 

Mr. Gouker Today a cloud lays over Penn. For you were a strong light in the school. Your leader ship and no none since ways will be missed deeply! You smiled even when you may not feel like it was a wave of happiness. God couldn’t wait any longer and had you come home. We miss you already. Carl

 

Before I graduated from Penn, Mr. Gouker was always trying to help students in any way he could. He wanted us to strive for greatness and to continuously become better people. He made a bigger impact on our lives than we had the capacity to realize at the time. Now that I’ve experienced the world outside of high school, I’m so grateful to have known and learned from him. For everyone still at Penn that knew him, don’t take anything he taught you about life for granted, because it will help you out later in life. He was a good man and my prayers are with his family. -Courtney Sniadecki

 

My condolences to the family of Mr. John Gouker. I had Mr. Gouker for 7th grade math at Schmucker Middle School in 1987 (I also had Mrs. Gouker as well). I was certainly not his prize student because I didn’t do much of my work. He use to ask me what I planned to do with my life and I told him I was going to be a Marine. He didn’t seem to be very fond of my plan but he was a hidden inspiration to me to work hard later in life. I have now been in the United States Marine Corps for 21 years and have a very successful career and partly due to Mr. Gouker. Thanks Mr. Gouker! My thoughts and prayers are with the family. -Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jeff Stapleton USMC

 

I was called into Mr. Gouker’s office one day after the security cameras caught me stuffing trash into a freshmen’s locker. Mr. Gouker and I had been friends since 7th grade and I was also in his office a lot, so we were familiar with each other. I didn’t think the offense was too serious until he asked me if I knew whose locker it was. Out of all the hundreds of lockers in Penn, I had some how managed to put trash into the one belonging to his daughter. As soon as I found out the apologies started flying. We were able to laugh about it later, but I saw my life flash before my eyes for a few tense seconds. If you’re reading this, I’m sorry I put trash in your locker, but I’d do it a million more times to have one more laugh with the great man that is your father. -Seamus

 

We’ve only met a few times but you were pretty cool. Even though we butted heads in the halls you were just doing your job. We will all miss you. Rest in paradise. ♡ -Ocean Kluszczynski

 

You know, this guy had a heart of gold. He definitely had his serious days but i would always see him around making small talk to students. On more than one occasion he would sit at my lunch table and just talk about life and whats going on in the world. I know ill miss the guy, but i also know hes in a better place. -Lucas

 

John had the best ” bus cleaning” parties ever. Very compassionate and stern at the same time. Taught respect to our students and also have pride in your actions as well as your self! -Tracy Thayer

 

Mr. Gouker was not my dean but he had helped at penny quite some time when I needed to talk about issues that brought me down. He was a great person and he did his job as he needed to do. At times he was a little hard and went over board but in general he was a great guy. In memory Rip Mr. Gouker  -Shiann Butler

 

You will be missed……Thank you from the bottom off our hearts for Everything you did for all off our kids !!!! Prayers too the family……..-Jennifer Pompey

 

I remember him as a man who loved his job. He wouldve done anything for this school. Its a shame to have such a good man pass away -Caleb Vore

 

John was one heck of a guy he really knew how to make you feel welcome when you entered the school I was at one point a new student at sms and John always said hello to me every morning he always asked hoops I was doing in baseball and in the classroom I used to go to discovery middle school and I transferred my 8th grade year due to my parents getting a divorce I think that John knew the emotions and feelings that I was going through at that age and he helped me get through it we developed a special bond over the time I was around him at sms we talked about hunting and fishing and all other kinds of out door activity he is a man I will always remember and will never be forgotten thank you John for everything you did for me in and out of the classroom you touched a lot of people’s hearts and that is something nobody could ever replace -Tyler Niespoodziany

 

If it wasn’t for this wonderful man, I can say I would not have graduated on time let alone at all. If it were not for him who knows where I would be at today. He was an inspiring person and he lifted peoples spirits up and he tried keeping heads high for the future. Truly be missed. -Tyler Eash

 

He would always give me a hard time while I was walking through the halls. Always made me smile. He was a wonderful dean and a wonderful lerson. He will be missed dearly. Its a part of penn that will never be.whole again.-Kathryn Belefant (Ross)

 

Not long ago, I and another PNN reporter were out filming a report for a package and we wanted to get some really interesting shots. One of the ones we thought of was to conduct our interview standing on the platform next to the Kingsman statue. But my friend and I thought we wouldn’t be allowed to get up there, so I snagged Mr. Gouker as he happened to be passing us in the hall and asked him if he would let us stand on the platform. He looked at us, looked at our cameras and tripods, and finally grinned. “I love PNN!” he said. “That’s fine if you get up there, just be careful, girls. Good luck!” We thanked him and he went on his way. That was the last time I ever spoke one-on-one with Mr. Gouker, and that’s how I’ll always remember him. Doing the best he could to keep Penn students safe. Rest in peace, Mr. G. We’ll miss you.  -Emily Vetne

 

Mr. Taught you to work hard and follow the rules. He was a great man and I’m glad I had the opportunity learn some knowledge from him. -Andrew Ward