Obituary: Robert Harry Goodrich - Class of 1937

MADISON - Robert Harry Goodrich died at St. Mary's Care Center, surrounded by his wife of 64 years and his children, on Monday, Jan. 7, 2008. Bob was born in Richland Center on Oct. 24, 1919, but moved with his parents Benjamin F. and Dora (Schmelzer) Goodrich and five brothers to Madison in 1925. Bob attended Doty School, graduated from Madison Central High, and attended the University of Wisconsin and Syracuse University. He was a member of the Army Air Corps Band and was a Link simulation aeronautical trainer during World War II. On March 3, 1943, Bob married Mary Jane Westphale and they had four children, Lynn (Jack) Jenkins, Bill (Frances Ryan) Goodrich, Madeline (Paul) Sattler and Christopher (Valerie Thrush). Bob and his family lived in the Westmorland Neighborhood since 1950. Bob owned and operated Robert's Beauty Salon on the Square for many years. The family was active at the YMCA, and Bob was a highly sought-after handball, paddleball and racquetball partner. Bob was a member of the BPO Elks, and enjoyed the Cubs, the Packers, golf, bridge and spending time with his family. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Frank, Rolland, Don, Leslie and Benjamin Junior. He is survived by his wife and children, eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. A gathering to celebrate Bob's life will be held at NAKOMA GOLF CLUB, 4145 Country Club Road, Madison on Friday, Jan. 11, 2008, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The family would like to thank the caregivers at St. Mary's Care Center for their wonderful attention, grace and humor. Memorials can be made payable to the YMCA of Dane County, 7617 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53717; or St. Mary's Care Center Employee Appreciation Fund, 3401 Maple Grove Drive, Madison, WI 53719. Bob will be buried in the family plot at the Little Brown Church in Bear Valley, near Richland Center. He will be remembered for his humor, his zest, his love for Mary Jane, and his inimitable no-nonsense style.Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road (608) 238-3434

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on January 9, 2008

Note: Robert Goodrich's class year is based on information in the 1937 Orange & Black yearbook, where he is pictured among the graduating seniors.