Whereas, Robert D. Goodman, a pillar of the Madison community, died on April 1, 2010, at age 90; and

Whereas, Robert came to Madison in 1939 to join his older brother, Irwin, in the family business and to attend the University of Wisconsin; and

Whereas, while at the University of Wisconsin, Robert was an outstanding student and athlete, earning a spot on the University of Wisconsin “Best Ever" team for men's fast-pitch softball; and

Whereas, Robert and his brother owned and operated Goodman's Jewelers on State Street in Madison from 1937 until they retired in 1998; and

Whereas, the Goodman brothers were rarely seen apart, sharing an apartment, many meals, and going to movies together and with friends; and

Whereas, Robert was deeply committed to the community, and in over 70 years, working in conjunction with the United Way, the University of Wisconsin, and the Madison Jewish Community Council, the Goodman brothers gave millions of dollars to causes big and small in order to better the lives of all in the community; and

Whereas, the Goodman's put much thought into each contribution, and initially did not want a lot of fanfare surrounding their generosity but only wanted to make Madison a better place for all residents; and

Whereas, some of the notable contributions to the community include the Goodman Pool, Madison's first public swimming pool, the Goodman Community Center on Madison's east side, Goodman's Diamond for the University of Wisconsin women's softball program, and the Goodman Jewish Community Campus in Verona; and

Whereas, Robert Goodman left a lasting impression on the Madison community through his selflessness, outgoing personality, and generous philanthropy on behalf of so many worthy causes; and

Whereas, Robert was preceded in death by his brother Irwin in 2009, and he is survived by many cousins and good friends; now, therefore, be it