By all accounts, Dennis Goldsmith was a powerful and bright presence at the JCC of the North Shore for nearly 30 years. He taught Taekwondo, yoga and other fitness classes to generations. Goldsmith died April 14 after surgery for cancer.
Goldsmith was especially beloved by his youngest students; preschoolers and elementary school kids taking Taekwondo. Some of his high school students will now lead those classes for the rest of the season.
He also worked with senior citizens, offering personal training to keep them active and healthy.
“He was charming, just an all-around great guy,” said Wendy Webber, who took Goldsmith’s classes for decades and is now a fitness instructor herself.
“There are so many people who have been in his classes and followed him for years. He was a remarkable teacher,” she added.
“He was approachable and friendly to everyone he crossed paths with at the JCCNS,” said PR and Marketing Director Karen Robinson. “He treated everyone with respect and kindness and inspired all of us to do the same.”
A ninth-degree black belt, Goldsmith held a degree in psychology, “which informed his lifelong dedication to the mental, emotional and physical well being of others,” according to his obituary. “He believed in the power of the human spirit to heal, grow and rise — and he lived that belief through both action and presence.”
His obituary continues, “More than an instructor, Dennis was a mentor to many kids, youth and adults alike. He poured his heart into uplifting others and was a quiet yet powerful force in his community. His legacy lives on in the strength he nurtured, the minds he awakened and the love he gave so freely.”
The JCC will hold a memorial service for Goldsmith on Sunday, May 4, 1 p.m. at 4 Community Road. It is open to the community.
