Luther Hall of Famer's Legacy Jumpstarts Daughter's Book 'Skip's Dharma'

Your contribution fuels the stories that shape Decorah—make a difference today. DECORAH — When writer and special education teacher Jennifer Gooch lost her father, Charles "Skip" Gooch, in May 2023, she found herself reflecting on his remarkable life. With his legacy in mind, she decided to write "Skip's Dharma: One Boy's Truest Passion," a children's book inspired by his story. The book is a touching tale about a boy named Skip, whose love for sports and competition evolves into a deeper understanding of his life's purpose—or "dharma." Skip's journey, as presented in the book, spans from his early years as an avid athlete to his time at Luther College in Decorah, where his passion for sports truly blossomed. The story serves as an inspiring reminder for young readers to discover their own true passion and follow it with determination, discipline and love. For Gooch, writing "Skip's Dharma" was both a personal and professional endeavor. A teacher in Chicago Public Schools at Chappell Elementary, Gooch said her students inspire her every day. She shared that her own passion for teaching and writing was something she wanted to pass on—not only through instruction, but by modeling how everyone can pursue creative passions. "I am a teacher, but I also enjoy writing, and my writing created something special for me to share with the kids and others," Gooch said. "I love teaching kids to read and write and that passion of mine manifests itself in different ways." A Father's Legacy Skip Gooch was a standout athlete at Luther College, where he excelled in both basketball and track. He was inducted into the Luther Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004 after breaking the school record in the long jump and contributing to four conference championship teams. After graduating in 1969, he became a physical education teacher and coach—a role he embraced for the better part of the next 50 years. For Gooch, her father's story wasn't just about athletic achievement; it was about an unwavering commitment to his passions. "Skip's story is about tenacity and a love of sports and competition, but also about knowing yourself and pursuing your dreams—in other words, following your dharma," Gooch said. "Skip continued coaching throughout his 70s, and at his memorial service, there were two former students of his in attendance from 50 years ago. He really did follow his dharma and that is an amazing thing." Charles "Skip" Gooch, Luther College Class of '69 Jennifer Gooch Focusing on Luther College Much of "Skip's Dharma" is centered on Skip's time at Luther College, which Gooch said marked a pivotal period in his life. The college shaped not only Skip's athletic career, but also laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to teaching and coaching. While writing the book, Gooch received valuable insight from Skip's former coach, Bob Naslund, who helped fill in details about Skip's athletic career. Naslund even makes a cameo in the book. The stories he shared brought Skip's character to life in a way that felt authentic and fun, including a humorous anecdote about Skip using cowboy boots to help with a sports injury. "Once I heard some of these stories, the book practically wrote itself," Gooch said. "I had a blast writing it! Big shoutout to Bob Naslund for his insight and great stories." Book Signing Event For those interested in meeting Jennifer Gooch and learning more about "Skip's Dharma," she will host a book signing at the Luther College Book Shop in Decorah on Saturday, May 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Become a part of the exclusive circle! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and gain access to special offers, bonus content and insider perks.