Fred was born in Baltimore, MD to William and Minnie Godman (nee Schultz). He is survived by his loving wife, of 38 years, Corine R. Godman (nee Rhoads). He was predeceased by his first wife, the late Joan Godman. In addition, he was the devoted father of Frederick D. Godman, Jr., Cynthia L. Godman-Knapp and her husband Charles, Donna A. Ellison and her husband John, and the late William W. Godman. Fred was the loving stepfather to Janis K. Bush and her husband George, Robert W. Mahaney and his wife Bambi and the late Thomas W. Mahaney. Proud grandfather to Matthew Knapp, Stephanie Knapp, William Ellison, Jordan Ellison, Lauren Zawicki, Ashley Bush, Heather Mahaney, and Dallin Mahaney. Great-grandfather to Anika, Olivia, Sophia, Crawford, Jace, and Agnes. He will be remembered by many nieces and nephews. Also survived by his sister, Thelma Lynch, he was predeceased by brothers William (Buster) Godman and Warren Godman.
Fred was a graduate of the University of Baltimore, and for a time, an evening class faculty member. He attended the Peabody Institute and was an accomplished pianist. Employed by The Daily Record Company for over 65 years he was a familiar face in the legal, auctioneers and state and local government communities. His career there started by delivering The Daily Record newspaper before school and returning after school to be errand boy. Through his advancement over the years, he retired as a Senior Vice President of the company.
After completing his military service in the Air Force, he joined the Air National Guard, serving over 25 years and retiring at the top enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant.
He was a Past President of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company and served as a certified paramedic, ambulance driver and firefighter for 17 years.
Fred was a man of the utmost integrity, a good family man, animal lover (especially big dogs), and a true patriot. He was deeply respected by all who knew him. He loved life and lived it to the fullest!
Family and friends are invited to gather on May 15, 2021, his birthday, at 1:00 pm at Loudon Park Cemetery, 3620 Wilkens Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21229 for a graveside service and inurnment.
Those desiring may make a memorial donation in his name to the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company, 109 S. Hickory Avenue., Bel Air, MD 21014.
