Lawrence Goodman

Lawrence V. “Larry” Goodman’s death on November 11, 2017, at the age of 78, evoked tributes from friends and colleagues at the Olympia Symphony, the Washington State Federation of State Employees (WFSE) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Larry died after a long and courageous effort to overcome the effects of spinal surgery. His determination to live his life to the full despite his pain was an inspiration to all.

Larry is survived by his wife, Cecille Owens, his son James (Diana), sister Mary Carol Goodman, three step-sons, an aunt, nine grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Larry’s intellect, his curiosity about the world around him, and his keen sense of humor never left him during his last years. He had a passion for life and was grateful for 28 years of sobriety and the wonderful life he had with Cecille. He took up tennis and skiing and they shared many trips to Sun Valley and La Quinta as well as time at the Owens Bainbridge family home where he was summer tennis chairman. His happiness was enhanced by his family, stepsons Todd, David and Ned, and nine grandchildren, Nick, Anna, Betsy, Meg, Abby, Peter, Emery, Ava and Lila, whose frequent visits brought him joy.

Larry was born in Los Angeles, California January 14, 1939 to James and Ruby Goodman, who preceded him in death. The family moved to Seattle in 1943, and in 1947 to Orting, WA. Larry graduated from Orting High School in 1956, and received a degree in business in 1960 from Seattle University, where his love of music developed. He worked his way through college leading his own dance band. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps Reserve. Larry was a member of The Valley Athletic Club, Olympia Country and Golf Club, and Olympia Kiwanis Club.

Larry frequently described himself as a “union goon,” with a twinkle in his eye. Former WFSE Director Gary Moore described Larry’s work as “a major force” on behalf of state employees. He was instrumental in securing the historic “comparable worth” settlement for women in state government, which was argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. Larry served as WFSE Director of Personnel Boards and Director of Field Services from 1967 to 1996. He also served AFSCME as International Vice President.

Larry was a long-time supporter of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra and served as Board president from 2009 to 2011. He was instrumental in creating and sustaining the Capitol Campus free Summer Concert, an annual event attended by 4500. According to Board colleague Mike Ryherd, Larry “instituted the group known as “Beethoven’s Buddies” to support the presentation of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on the Symphony’s 60 Anniversary.”

A private interment was held December 1, 2017 at Orting Cemetery.

Please leave condolences on the Mills and Mills Website at www.millsandmillsfunerals.com.

Remembrances may be made to The Olympia Symphony Orchestra or charity of your choice.