Richard "Rick" Paul Goodman, 73, died in the early morning hours of June 7th, 2024 surrounded by family.

Born in Wilmington, on April 7th, 1951 to the late Raymond and Audrey Goodman.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Marcia Goodman; his daughter, Jennifer Goodman (David Willard) of Philadelphia, PA; his son Jason Goodman (Karen) of Stafford, VA; and his daughter, Jann Goodman Seiter (Jonathan) of Yorktown, VA; as well as 6 grandchildren:  Keaton, Wilder, and Carys Goodman and Andrew, Christopher, and Louis Seiter; his brother, Keith Goodman (Kathy); his sister, Wendy Ray; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Rick's legacy will live on through his dedication to his family, friends, and his community.  He proudly served his country and community as a medic in the National Guard and a police officer on the New Castle County Police Department.  Rick became a charter member of the New Castle County Police Alumni Association.

Rick was an avid soccer enthusiast.  He passionately fought to establish the first soccer program at Indian River High School which led to his recent induction into the Indian River Soccer Hall of Fame.  He also actively participated in the US Soccer Federation as a referee and as an assessor of referees statewide.  He has passed his love of soccer and golf onto his grandchildren.

Most recently, Rick worked as an adjunct professor of humanities at Wilmington University.  He was revered by his students for challenging them to question societal norms.  One student fondly described Rick as a professor who "encouraged a lifelong love for learning; demonstrated a passion for teaching; and encouraged a respect for other cultures and values".

Rick will be remembered for his sense of humor and wit, his appreciation for the outdoors, music and the arts, and Premier League Soccer.  As a father and husband, Rick showed unwavering love and pride.  He was quick to offer advice, lend a hand, and encourage you to take a new step.  In their own words, his grandchildren lovingly remember him as "devoted, loving, humorous, adventurous, passionate, strong, compassionate, nice, funny, kind, friendly, goofy, playful, caring, dependable".  And a dear family friend said, "Your father was such a great man.  I saw the love he had for your mother first hand.  I also saw all of his kindness and love towards everyone that crossed his path.  He was a man you want to grow up and be like him!".

Rick made note of the following quote from an anonymous author:

"Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely, in a well-preserved body, but rather, to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting 'Holy shit…what a ride!"

Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome memorial contributions to the National Parks Conservation Association .

Visitation will be held at Melson's Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Rd, Ocean View, DE 19970, on June 12th, 2024 from 3-5pm.