Burton Henry Goodman

Burt Goodman passed away on December 14, 2024 at the age of 96. Burt was proud to be a native Tacoman, born on January 10, 1928, son of Bert H. and Louise (Pitzen) Goodman. His education included St. Patrick’s grade school, Bellarmine Preparatory, Seattle University (BS) and the University of Washington (DDS). He was drafted into the Army in World War II where he served as a dental technician, leading him to pursue a career in dentistry. While in dental school Burt became re-acquainted with the love of his life, Edna Lou Enright, who he had known casually since grade school days. They were married May 15, 1954 and enjoyed years of happiness while raising five children. Burt’s primary sources of joy were his wife, family, relatives and friends. Burt and Edna Lou were founding members of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and were members of Fircrest Golf Club and a host of religious, professional and civic organizations.

Burt’s career took him along many paths; his 39 year private dental practice in Tacoma, - he loved his loyal patients who he also considered friends; founding a dental clinic and internship program at the old Pierce County Hospital; and serving as Army Reserve dental officer - reaching the rank of Lt. Colonel. 

When only one year out of dental school, he joined a group of “young Turk dentists” who pioneered the dental insurance industry in the brainstorming and formation of Washington Dental Service (the first in the nation) and also the nationwide Delta Dental Plans Association. He served terms as an early president of each. Burt was a past-president of the Pierce County Dental Society, and former editor for the Washington State Dental Association. He also served terms on both the Washington State Boards of Health and Dentistry. 

The Washington Dental Service Foundation (now known as the Arcora Foundation) recognized his efforts when it created the Burton H. Goodman Presidential Scholarship at the UW School of Dentistry. Additionally, he received the Washington State Dental Association’s President’s Award and Fellowship honors in both the American and International Colleges of Dentistry. In 2022, he was named “Citizen of the Year” by the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA).

Burt was pre-deceased by his parents, sisters; Margaret Goodman Walker, Virginia Armstrong-Latvala, Therese Reiley and a daughter, Ann Goodman Bahm. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Edna Lou Goodman, Paul (Teresa) Goodman, Marty (Suzanne) Goodman, Jane (Steven) Wraith, Robert (Donna) Goodman, six grandchildren and their spouses, five great-grandchildren plus many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Special thanks to Carlos and Elma Alarcon who provided outstanding, loving care at First Place for Your Loved One adult family home.

Burt would appreciate memorials to: The Burton H. Goodman/WDSF Scholarship Fund, University of Washington Dental School, Box 359505, Seattle, WA 98195 (checks should be made out to UW Foundation) or Bellarmine Preparatory School..