1924
2017
GOEDDE, HENRY (HARRY) JOHN
Born January 6, 1924 to Henry Goedde and Catherine Kilburg (Nelson). Passed on June 14, 2017 at the age of 93. He was born in Colton, WA and grew up in Uniontown, WA on the homestead. At the age of 5 he moved to Spokane, WA and after 4 years back to Uniontown, WA until going off to serve in WWII. Harry was an excellent salesman starting out selling ladies shoes at the Crescent Department Store in Spokane, then worked as a milkman at Carnation Company for 7 years, after which he went out on his own into the lighting business, selling light bulbs, lighting tubes and fixtures to hundreds of businesses in Spokane and outlaying areas. He was known by many businesses in the vicinity as "Harry the Light man" and always wore a hat.
Harry served in the US Army under General Patton's 3rd Army, 76th Infantry Division starting at the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium, Luxembourg and through the Siegfried Lines and the Rhine River. Having earned the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and other medals for his bravery of which he is mentioned in 3 books. He was wounded on the Rhine River by a German sniper and received a one-way ticket back to the US having been evacuated to Madigan Hospital, Ft Lewis. He was a member of the Purple Heart Association (MOPH), having served as treasurer for 7 years as well as a life member of the DAV, VFW and CIB. Harry also had the privilege of being included of the fourth Honor Flight for veterans and was very proud of that.
He loved to travel, having been to different countries and retracing his past going to England, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. Harry also wrote a book titled "From the Depression into WWII" depicting many drawings that he did himself. He had a natural talent when it came to drawing and oil painting, which were his hobbies. If he wasn't painting or drawing, he was building.
Harry was well liked and loved by those he met in life. Never a boring man, he would keep you entertained with stories about his childhood, growing up in the Inland Northwest Empire and stories about his experiences during WWII. He loved to laugh and had one of those infectious laughters that made everyone laugh!
He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers: the eldest Norbert and youngest Dick (Reinald) followed by 2 sisters: Frances Goedde and youngest sister Dona Hanson and 2nd wife Martl Otto. His sister Alice Nason is the last surviving of 6 children. Harry is survived by his current wife of 40+ years Karen and first wife, Irene, the mother of his 4 children, the eldest Susan (Chuck) Prussack, followed by twin sons, Donald (Thelma) and Ronald Goedde and Terrie (Dave) Hudson; step children Connie Kubu, Chris Hart, Patricia Richardson, Marion Richardson and Joanne Richardson. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and many great grandchildren. He wishes them all a good life.
He is now taking his last trip and hopes in the right direction. Good-bye to all his friends, wishing them well!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Hazen & Jaeger Valley Funeral Home.
June 22, 2017
Doug and Annette Hanson
Uncle Harry, we are saddened by your passing and grateful I had the opportunity to see you a few years ago. From the time I was a teen your accounts of the war were fascinating and inspiring. To Karen and family, our sympathies and prayers. And to Harry, in the Army it's never goodbye, it's until the next post.
June 19, 2017
Thank you for your service to our country. Rest in peace.
June 19, 2017
My prayers are with Aunt Karen and all of Uncle Harry's loved ones. Uncle Harry was an unforgettable character and I know my Mom Alice will miss him. God bless all of you during this difficult time. Penny (Nason) Larson
June 19, 2017
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery extends our deepest sympathies to the family of Henry J. Goedde for your loss. We honor him for the service and sacrifice he made for our nation, he is a true hero.
June 18, 2017
Kelly Jo Kegerreis
Our prayers of comfort to Harry's family. We met him once at Northern Quest. He was with his daughter(?) We were spellbound by his rich stories.
June 18, 2017
Katie McLaughlin
I am so sorry to hear of Harry's passing. I had the pleasure of seeing him whenever came into Macy's. He was a favorite of many of the associates, especially mine. I was blessed to purchase his book that he so graciously autographed for my husband. I remember the day I first met Harry and he showed me his amazing drawings of the War that he so proudly carried in his wallet. His smile was a bright spot in our day and I feel so incredibly fortunate to have met a true hero like Harry. Although, he didn't like to be called that. We all felt so honored every time he came in. I will miss him. You're in heaven now Harry. They get to hear your amazing stories. Thank you for touching my life.
June 18, 2017
Susan Haight
I am so saddened to learn of Harry's passing but so glad he lived a full, rich life. It has been decades since I have seen any of you but I have very fond memories of your whole family. I am Sue Haight now but back then you knew me as Sue Baldwin. Irene and my Mom Kay were best friends and my brother Steve and I spent so many wonderful times at your house growing up. I have often wondered what happened to all of you. I'm truly sorry for your loss. Harry was a great guy and a father figure in my life and I really looked up to him. My heart aches for you! My sincere condolences. RIP Harry!
June 18, 2017
Peggy Rutan
Our deepest sympathies. Remember it is not good-bye but see you later.
June 18, 2017
Ahhh, Harry...Your final journey. From the day you entered into my life you've made a "forever" impact. Not many can say they have or had 2 dads; I can! You married my mama and accepted my sisters and I as your children. Always there for us. You protected us, helped feed & clothe us. Took us on vacations, camping, hiking. I remember my first "formal" dance were I was supposed to wear one of Patricia's beautiful gowns, since I was much taller it came above my ankles. You so surprised me coming home with a huge gift box and in it was my VERY own gown, long gloves and a hair ribbon. Patricia fixed my hair incorporating the ribbon and by the time I was completely ready I truly felt like Cinderella going to the ball. From that day forward I knew in my heart that you would be forever in my heart, my second dad. How blessed can a person be to have more than one dad to love. I have always loved you and you have meant so much to me. I will be lost without calling you, seeing you and spending time with you. Love you so much! Joanne Richardson
June 15, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
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Hazen & Jaeger Valley Funeral Home1306 North Pines Road, Spokane Valley, WA 99206
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