Richard William Goodale

Richard “Rick” Goodale Sr. was born on March 16th, 1929, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Norman and Bernice Goodale, the third of six children. He was raised in Waltham, Massachusetts, and after graduating from high school, joined the United States Marine Corps in 1948. Within two years, he found himself at the Chosin Reservoir in Korea, serving with the 1st Marine Division in one of the most consequential battles in Marine Corps history.

After his return home from a year-long tour of duty, Rick began building the foundation of a large and successful family through his sons, Richard Jr. (Cynthia), Gary Michael (Terry), and Kevin (Lisa). Beginning his military career as a private, he served a total of 32 years on active duty across multiple duty stations throughout the country. During that time, he received his commission as an officer, earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and later commanded the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968, including during the Tet Offensive. He ultimately retired as a Colonel of Marines, receiving numerous decorations and establishing a 78-year legacy of service continued through two sons and his grandson.

Following his military retirement, Rick began a second career in Washington, D.C., with Williams & Connolly LLP, where he served for the next 27 years. During this time he helped establish and define the now-common role of Firm Administrator and became deeply involved in mentoring and assisting countless retiring military officers as they transitioned into careers within the legal profession. During these years, the Goodale family also grew with the addition of his daughter, Katrienne (Kevin).

After nearly six decades of public and private service, Rick fully retired to his home in Alexandria, Virginia, and to his beloved getaway, “Duck, Duck, Goose,” in Duck, North Carolina, where he enjoyed watching baseball and many sunsets.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his four children, six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and the many people whose lives were shaped by his leadership, mentorship, and friendship.

Rick will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Quantico, Virginia.