Clark Fredrick Goodman
Clark was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, sibling and friend. He was a gentleman’s gentleman and will be remembered for his compassion, kindness, grace, unconditional support, and wonderful sense of humor. Born in Ballard, Washington to Thora and Clark Goodman, Dad was doted on and adored by his Mom from day one. He had a wonderful childhood with amazing siblings, and beloved friendships which lasted a lifetime. He was truly the “best friend” to many, as one of his oldest friends of 85 years told him just before his passing. Dad went to Ballard High School where, across the street from the school, the famous Zesto’s drive-in featured a burger on the menu named after him: The Pinky Burger. He went on to graduate from the University of Washington in 1959 with a BA degree. While at the UW, he was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity where he developed close friendships that have lasted sixty-plus years. After college, he served in the army from 1959 to 1962. He was stationed in Monterey, CA at Ford Ord and this is where he met the love of his life, Rosemary Smith. They met at the famed Mission Inn and that Norwegian boy from Ballard was smitten for life. They had a magical marriage and celebrated their 60th anniversary five months before his passing. There are not enough words to describe how our Mom will miss her “Goody.” After leaving the service, Clark went to work for American Hospital Supply and had a fantastic 32-year career with American and then at Baxter Healthcare after being acquired. Throughout his career he was recognized numerous times as the top salesperson in the country; he invented and executed the first “Just-In-Time” program ever in the world, at Emanuel Hospital in Portland, OR. Dad was lucky enough to retire early in 1987 and he and Mom enjoyed fabulous trips to various places around the world and truly loved spending their winters in Palm Desert, CA with summers back in Portland. Dad had a huge passion for sports, whether he was playing, coaching, or watching. He loved his years spent on the golf course as a member of Portland Golf Club and Desert Island Golf Club. He was a voracious reader; never a day without the newspaper read cover to cover. He enjoyed playing cards, going to the movies, barbequing, and just being with family and friends. He was an inspiration to all with his positive attitude and kindness; always a thoughtful listener with great advice, a dry wit, and no judgment. Dad never complained, even at the very end when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer days before his passing. He was the definition of positivity and made sure those around him were his priority. Dad found joy in life’s simple pleasures; he had time for anyone, stopped to smell the roses, and rooted for both the big and small guy. He wanted everyone to win and be happy. He will be missed greatly by his wife of 60 years, Rosemary, sister Bev, daughter Courtney, sons Chip and Robbie; daughter-in-law Sue, six grandchildren: Mitch, Spencer, Allie, Jayme, Jack, and Sammy, and one great-grandson Austin, all of whom loved their Grandpa dearly.
