Car Expert, TV Personality From Anne Arundel Dies At 80: Reports

WEST RIVER, MD — A car expert and a TV personality from Anne Arundel County died last Saturday at 80 years old, reports said. The late handyman, Pat Goss, appeared more than 1,000 times on a Maryland Public Television series.

The West River resident was known for his vehicle maintenance segment called “Goss’ Garage." This aired on a popular program named "MotorWeek."

Maryland Public Television on Monday announced Goss' death, offering its condolences to his family and friends. President and CEO Larry D. Unger will remember Goss as a "warm, witty, and talented man.”

"His 'Goss’ Garage' segments on each episode of MotorWeek were enjoyed by local, national, and international audiences," Unger said. "[They all] appreciated Pat’s car care expertise and trusted his easy-to-understand insights."

Goss was born on Dec. 18, 1941. He joined "MotorWeek" as a resident master technician when the show started 41 years ago. The program now airs on 92 percent of PBS stations nationwide.

Maryland Public Television, also known as MPT, inducted Goss into its Walk of Fame in 2018. This honored Goss' six decades in the car repair industry.

"MotorWeek" paid its respects with a tribute on Facebook.

"Goss' Garage has been a pillar of our program and a must-see segment for millions," the post said. "Viewers ... tuned in for the no-nonsense maintenance advice and incomparable car knowledge that Pat dispensed with effortless familiarity and understated wit."

Fans also shared their memories of Goss.

One viewer, Tom Kierein, used to be a meteorologist for NBC Washington. While at the local TV station, Kierein interviewed Goss for a story. Kierein remembers their chat fondly.

"I've been a MotorWeek fan since the beginning and always respected the car-care advice that Pat Goss provided," Kierein commented. "He was a complete professional and a good guy."

"Goss' Garage" was filmed in Owings Mills at the headquarters of Maryland Public Television.

Fans can stream "MotorWeek" at pbs.org/show/motor-week/episodes. Viewers can also search this TV guide to see when the series airs in their area.

Have a story idea? Please contact me at jacob.baumgart@patch.com with any pitches, tips or questions. Follow me on Twitter @JacobBaumgart and on Facebook @JacobBaumgartJournalist to stay up-to-date with the latest Anne Arundel County news.