John Goss, training specialist at Q’Straint, died Jan. 3 of pneumonia, the company confirmed. He was 84.
Before joining the student transportation industry, Goss served in the U.S. Air Force, where he retired as chief master sergeant after serving in Vietnam. During his military career, he was nominated for the Air Force Noncommissioned Officer of the Year for transportation.
Goss’ experience in the student transportation industry began in 1974, when he became director of transportation and facilities at the Marana Unified School District just outside of Tucson, Arizona, where he served in that capacity until 1989.
After Goss left the school district, Jim Reaume, director of Sales at Q’Straint, offered him a contract job as the company’s first outside sales and technical expert. The two had formed a close working relationship during Goss’ time as a transportation director.
“Jim was always impressed by John’s knowledge of wheelchair securement products and regulations – not to mention his outspoken love for Q’Straint wheelchair securement Q5000,” the company said in a statement.
At Q’Straint, Goss helped develop the Q’Straint National Training Seminar, which the company called one of his most notable accomplishments. To honor his contributions, Q’Straint will dedicate their training facility in his name.
“No one was more loyal to our company than John was. He was a good family man and will be missed by all,” said Reaume.
John Goss is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janine, two sons, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
