Maybe this is related: when I did a huge remodeling construction job for a summer as an unskilled laborer, I basically ran around and helped different people on everything. That’s sometimes called being a “go-fer boy”. “Go for this, go for that” meaning I would always run around and fetch tools and do simple tasks.
Why do Americans answer the phone with "Gopher"?
Like for instance someone saying “Gopher John” when answering the phone. What does this mean?
"You know... I'm something of an extremist myself." Norman proudly remarked. (feddit.ch)