Ronald Jerome Goldman

Obituary

Ronald J Goldman, beloved father, husband, grandfather, esteemed ophthalmologist, accomplished violinist, and fervent enthusiast of life, passed away peacefully on December 12th, 2023.  His departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, the San Diego medical community, and the chamber music world.


Ronald was born with an insatiable curiosity and an innate passion for medicine and music.  He graduated from UCLA and subsequently matriculated to Baylor Medical School.  After 3 years of service in the US Air Force as a flight surgeon with an honorable discharge as a Captain, Ronald completed his ophthalmology residency at Ford Hospital in Detroit.  Upon returning to California, he founded the Eye Institute of California in 1971 out of a single exam room office with his wife, Wynnona, at 311 Del Mar Ave in Chula Vista.  With a commitment to patient care and the art of medicine, his reputation grew and the practice expanded quickly.  Most recently, the practice relocated- this time back to its origins at 311 Del Mar Ave where it now occupies the entire building.  His reputation in medicine was built upon a solid commitment to always put patients first and the Eye Institute of California will remain in service, and in his memory, for the patients he loved with the same founding principles of care.   

Ronald's impact on chamber music extended to a global scale.  It was rare to see him ever leave home without a violin in tow and in any city he visited, regardless of the occasion, playing music with old and new friends was of paramount importance.  In 1978, the San Diego Chamber Music Workshop was created to provide amateur chamber musicians an opportunity to play non-stop in an environment that was focused on music for an entire week.  Nearly 50 years later, this workshop continues as the SoCal Chamber Music, inspiring many musicians from around the world to achieve greater levels in musicianship and exposure.  He assumed many roles and positions within chamber music societies, all with a focus to allow him to meet fellow musicians and play as much music as possible.  The world of music was a second home for Ronald and those who played with him understood his genuine commitment, pride, and love for his chamber music family.

Ronald approached life with boundless energy and enthusiasm, finding joy in every endeavor. Whether engaging in teeth shattering games of racquetball, or embracing the challenge of maintaining his fitness and health, he lived each day to the fullest.  Above all, Ronald's greatest source of pride and happiness was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a pillar of strength and support to those he held dear. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering love enriched the lives of all who knew him.

In celebrating Ronald's life, let us remember the brilliance of his spirit, the melody of his laughter, and the warmth of his criticism. Though he may have left this world, his legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire us all.

A gathering to honor Ronald's remarkable life will be held at the Thursday Club on March 16th, 2024. His light will forever shine bright in our hearts, guiding us with its gentle warmth and reminding us to live each day with purpose, passion, and love. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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Memory wall

March 15, 2024

I have so many fond memories with Ron having grown up down the street. He was always cracking jokes when I came over or when we traveled and went on trips. His attitude for life was amazing, always positive and chipper, a perfect example was finding his lost Rolex watch on the bottom of a bay by following a little gold fish. He shared and let us play with all of his toys, whether it was his car, catamaran, or anything else. He took us out sailing on the Hobie Cat in the bay and made me realize the fun of sailing with two hulls. Thank you for all the memories over the years from Bonita to Baja and everywhere in between.

Peter Sedivec

March 14, 2024

I was very saddened to learn of Ron’s passing. He was the consummate art lover with a very broad aesthetic. I always enjoyed engaging with him because he had such strong ideas. I loved seeing him in audiences and knew I would receive an email from him within a day or two sharing his ideas. While we didn’t always agree, we always had fun discussing our opinions with one another.
Ron was truly generous in his support of the arts and will be missed by all of us in the San Diego arts community.

Jordan Peimer

March 5, 2024

I met Ron when I began my practice as a medical oncologist in Chula Vista I always enjoy wis sense humor, and curiosity I saw him last time in a concert at the Conrad music hall in company of Wymona.We exchange comments about our sons as well as medicine.I will miss him 🙏🙏

Rosalba Rodríguez de la Dierra

Celebration of Life