David Henry Goulet, 77, was called Home to his favorite trout stream in the sky on March 7, 2024. Born in Holyoke, he was the son of the late, Henry & Shirley (Lynch) Goulet.
A good and simple man, David went to work, went fishing, and came home. Early in life he knew his passion for fishing would become his life’s calling. He opened Classic and Custom Fly Shop and ran it for over 40 years where he designed beautiful pieces of artsimply termed fishing flies. They were well known as catchers in the community garnering him a slew of loyal and dedicated fishermen. One such fly, the Bette Jane, was named after his beloved wife, Bette Jane (Provost) Goulet.
David was honored and humbled receiving many awards and citations over the years for his conservation efforts, saving trout and salmon streams for future fisherpeople. He helped create the Pioneer Valley chapter of Trout Unlimited, he was cited in several books and articles on fishing and for the past 14 years was Feather Merchant on eBay, selling his flies and fly-tying gear.
David is survived by his adoring wife, Bette, brother, Steven Goulet & wife Rose of Parrish, FL, sister, Evelyn Goulet of Holyoke, many dear nieces & nephews, and best friends, Jamie McAllister & wife Sam, the Byrnes brothers, Steve Messier, Jerry Jahn, Mike McDonnell, and Rudy & Iris Ciecko.
To honor David’s wishes, his funeral services were private.
Memorial contributions may be made to your favorite fishing organization.
Please visit www.TazziniFuneralHome.com for condolences.
I haven't fished the Farmington in 15+ years, but i used to fish it 100 days a year. I would ALWAYS stop by the Classic & Custom Fly Shop before hitting the waters. Just randomly, i thought of Dave just now and decided to google his name. I was saddened to learn of his passing. Dave was always generous with his knowledge and a TRUE steward to the river many many people called their 'home waters'. Dave guarded the Farmington for all of us. RIP and thanks for watching the waters for us fly fishermen for decades from your own banks at the C&C.
Sincere condolences Bette.
My sincere condolences Bette. I had a great many fishing expeditions with David and learned so much from him. Tying flies or putting together the TU newsletter in your place on Beech Street. Fishing in Roscoe, NY or on the Miramachi. All great memories.
I can't put in words what a kind person Dave was to all Western Mass fly fishermen