Dean Goodman

Dean William Goodman, 94, of Great Falls, passed away Sunday, March 13, 2016. He passed away peacefully at his home, after a long and active life.A memorial service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church on Monday, April 4, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.Dean William Goodman was born in Omaha, Nebraska on May 10, 1921. Dean and his four brothers and two sisters were raised in a loving, adventurous household despite their poverty and hardships. Dean liked to share anecdotes of his childhood on Z Street. He was interested and proud of his German heritage and attended several German classes during his retirement. He enjoyed singing and entertaining during the holidays with Stille Nacht and O Tannenbaum.Goodman graduated at the top of his class in 1939 from Omahas South High School. He was honored as Citizen of the Year and participated in track and field. After graduation, he held several different jobs before being drafted into the military in 1942.After much testing, training, and schooling, Dean graduated as Honor Man in his class and was assigned to the Army Air Corps as a tower operator. He was exceptionally proud of serving his country for four years in England, France and Germany. He was a member of the 305th Troop Carrier Squadron in the 442nd TC Group, which was in the 50th TC Wing. He wore his WWII veteran cap with honors.His years of retirement were spent traveling, singing, enjoying his yardwork, golfing at the Muni and enjoying family and friends. Goodman sang in the choir at Faith Lutheran Church and the Swinging Seniors. He was a faithful member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and truly appreciated the church family.Dean met Helen Joy Berney on a blind date, arranged by Deans sister. Their first date was the new movie, Miracle on 34th Street. Dean and Helen were married in 1948 in Omaha. Deans tight knit family meant everything to him. He was a loving, warm man and a true gentleman. He never complained and was a positive, supportive husband and father. He was present at all of his childrens school and church activities. As adults, his children could always count on Dean to lend a helping hand and moral support. He parented with a sense of humor and much laughter. He and Helen were quite the team and had a wonderful journey together.He is survived by his wife, Helen; his daughter Denise and her husband Bob Lee, his son Douglas and his wife Marcia Goodman; Doug and Marcias children, Brad, Melissa (Dean); great-grandchildren, Drew and Kelsey.Dean never wavered as a dedicated husband, father, brother, uncle, and has left a legacy of love.Wir Lieben dich!The family would like to express their gratitude and thanks to Audrey Sabol of Peace Hospice, for her wonderful care and support. They would also like to recognize the Great Falls Veterans Administration. The VAs generosity and support made it possible for Dean to remain at home and receive the loving care and respect that all veterans have earned. There are no words to describe the familys appreciation to Deans personal caregivers. They will be eternally grateful to Lilia and Eric Eggleston, Trish and Chad Bice, Nikki Flethcer Boggs, Chris Wilson, Cortney Armijo, Amanda Gable, Mykell Fox, and Vanessa Spiewak.Memorials in Deans name may be given to the VA Montana Healthcare System or Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St. S., Great Falls, MT 59405.