him the toughest jobs in government: the Ministry of Finance from 1959 to 1965 when economic survival was crucial; Ministry of Defence in 1965 when all we had were two battalions of the Singapore Infantry Regiment. “With his passing, we have lost a remarkable and outstanding son,” he added. But perhaps the most touching eulogies came from Dr. Goh’s beloved grandson and grandniece. Goh Ken-Yi, 37, recounted his earliest memories of his grandfather — spending weekends with him as a child.

He recounted how his grandfather would sometimes fall asleep while telling him bedtime stories after a hard day’s work. “Today, as I listen to what people say and read the newspapers about how, despite his busy schedule he was always concerned about the welfare of labourers, hawkers, soldiers, men in the street, I marvel at how this is so in keeping with the selfless and caring grandfather I saw at home,” he said.

Marian Hui, Dr. Goh’s 15-year-old grand-niece, said her grand-uncle was her inspiration. In a voice trembling with emotion, she said, “On behalf of young Singaporeans, I thank you for your selfless gift of yourself. On behalf of young Singaporeans, I salute you for your profound dedication and immeasurable sacrifice as a founding father of our nation.”