To The Goodkin family:

I was searching for physicians that I worked with in the early 1980's as a new employee at City of Hope, and came across your beloved husband, father, and friend.  I am sorry for your loss.  I can only tell you that Dr. Goodkin took a new surgical tech under his wings and showed me how to be a great assistant to him under very stressful situations.  Of all the specialties in surgery, this has to be the foremost in concentration, and Dr. Goodkin took the time to explain what he was doing and why.  This made a great impact on me and I thank him for doing that.  Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts on this great man and surgeon!

Dr. Goodkin took care of my dad when he had a large tumor.  The following year my young husband, a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff was shot and paralyzed. Dr. Goodkin came to the hospital a couple of weeks later. He told me my husband would walk again and he was correct. We owned Vittorio's Italian Restaurant in Huntington Beach. We became friends with Dr. and Mrs. Goodkin. We celebrated New Years Eve with them at our restaurant. It was a beautiful and hopeful night, all the better because they were with us. Today my dad is 93 years old and in great health. My husband is 70 and had some great years playing softball and tennis. Thank you Dr. Goodkin, rest with the angels. Anna Cafasso

I was hurt in the military in 1987 at Fort Lewis Washington.   My L-1 vertebrae was broke and I ended up being a paraplegic.   Dr.  Goodkin saved my life.   I wasn't expected to make it.  Then the military called him in and he did a remarkable job on my back.   I've been hurt 34 years.   My wife an I have been married 40 years.  We have 2 daughters, 3 grandsons, 18 & twin 15 year old, and 2 granddaughters 5 & 8.  I've had a wonderful life, and I owe it all to Dr. Goodkin.. and his brilliance!  I just wish I could have thanked him in person!  
My best wishes to his family!  I just wanted to share my feelings with you and let you know how he impacted my life!

Bless you,
Carl Jensen


I am saddened to learn of Bob’s passing and would like his family to know what a pleasure it was to work with him during his years at City of Hope.  I think of his smiling face and warm, gentle nature. A true gentleman. Even after all these years I’m sure you still miss him tremendously. Just know your sentiments are shared by the many who knew him and valued him. 
Sally Shaw, MD

Hello to Dr. Goodkin’s Family and Friends. I’m so sorry that I’m late with my condolences, but I just learned of his passing.

I worked for Dr. G for a brief time at Harborview along with three others, and I always loved our interactions.  We discussed things  both medical and far-away-from-medical. I loved hearing about his treatments for patients with movement disorders  or his work at the Gamma Knife Center. 

Dr. G was kind, funny, talented, and a delight to work for. I’m so sorry to learn of his passing and so grateful I was able to know him, if only for a short time.  He truly touched my heart and I miss him.

Dr Goodkin...so very sorry to have lost touch, and just learned this now! We met in waist-high grass overlooking the Sound ...the property on which he and Sandra built a wonderful home while in Federal Way - new to the area at the time in 1987.  Robert instantly came to mind a few years later when my then  3-yr old niece was hit by a flying object (kids playing) that nearly took her eye out, penetrated her forehead and pierced her brain sack. He gave specific instructions, and had everything setup for surgery upon her arrival. Saved her life, no doubt about it! Wonderful man - talented, caring, and brilliant!

I realize this memory is noted years after Dr. Goodkin's passing.  I only became aware a short time ago that this very special man is no longer with us.

  Dr. Goodkin  saved my life in the early 70's.  He was in his early 30's at the 
time , and I was 10 years younger.  I had suffered an auto accident  and Dr. Goodkin diagnosed a serious brain bleed and did an 8 hour extensive brain surgery on me.  I would have most certainly died had he not performed this surgery.

I remember him as such a kind man, a brilliant physician, and a tireless young man so devoted to his patients. He calmed my mother's fears, as he did mine.

I feel sad and so sorry I was too late to get in touch with him in later years to thank him yet again, and to tell him that had it not been for him,  I never would have had such a fulfilling career in helping others and living a life full of love.

I will always remember his kind & gentle behavior.His care & practice was second to none .
Doc you will be missed greatly

Dear Goodkin Family- I knew "Dr. G" as I called him, through the City of Hope Medical Center in Duarte, CA in the early 1980's.  He was a kind, gentle and understanding man, who showed great compassion to his patients and co-workers.  As a Volunteer and Patient, we spent a great deal of time together, sharing quick conversations during his busy schedule.  We have maintained a connection in the years that have passed, and I will miss the occasional update notes. He will be missed by all that came across his path.  You are all in my thoughts and prayers that the days will become lighter, as the time lengthens.  He will never be forgotten by those that had the pleasure of his company. Fondly, Diane & Pat

Dear Sandy,  Norm and I just found out about Bob's passing.  We were shocked and saddened to hear this news.  We will always remember and appreciate his kindness and concern during Norm's illness.  Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Sandy - I just found out about Dr. Goodkin's passing today.  Unfortunately being retired I was not in the information loop.  I have many fond memories of him and was always happy to see you at Neurosurgery events.  I hope that you are doing well and my thoughts are with you and your family now.  Today I am reflecting on my relationship with him and am glad of the time I got to work with him and know him as a person.   Linda Holman Lake Forest Park WA

Dear Sandy and Family, so sorry to hear about Bob's passing.  Know that you and your family are in our hearts and prayer at this difficult time. 
Phyllis and Richard Matoff

Sandy & family, our heart felt wishes are with you during this most difficult time. I will forever cherish my childhood friendship with Bob.

Sandy -
Pat and I send our sincere condolences.  We'd love to hear from you.

To those, like I, who remember Dr. G, as we called Bob, as a kind and spirited soul, honest to a fault, straight-forward in his approach to life. Some one who made you feel you were important regardless of what you did. Rest in Peace, Dr. G.

Bob Shupe
Fiscal Specialist, Neurological Surgery, 1991-2001, 2008-2010

The world has lost a good man, a gentle soul, a passionate teacher, and an excellent physician. It is an honor to have known Bob and the momories will last forever.

I first met Dr. Goodkin in 1989 through my wife's work @ UW Neurosurgery.  He was always interested in talking about my work and how things were going, as well as what was going on in the real world.  He was an articulate and fun guy to chat with, so I will always remember him in that way.  I am so sad to hear of his passing and wish the family many happy memories and smiles as you celebrate his life!  God Bless, Ben Bailess and family...

Words alone cannot begin to express our sincere condolences at this time. The pain will fade but the good memories will last forever. Enjoy and celebrate those good times and his love and spirit will live on forever. All our thoughts and prayers are with you

OBITUARY

Robert Goodkin, M.D.

May 22, 1939 – October 15, 2012

Sunset Hills Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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