Dee W. Goodman

Dee W. Goodman, age 85, of Panhandle, died June 20, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas.

Dee was born in Foard County, Texas, but moved to Panhandle at age four where he lived most of his life.

After graduating from High School, Dee worked for Vibra Whirl. He also joined the National Guard and the Amarillo Skydivers' Assn. and learned to jump out of airplanes - a hobby he dearly loved. After about four years of this he decided to join the Army and was accepted into the elite 82nd Airborne Division stationed at Ft. Bragg, N. Carolina. He became a member of their exhibition jump team and traveled to many places making exhibition jumps for the Army. After completing his tour of duty, he returned to Panhandle and reconnected with the Amarillo Skydivers group. When he retired from parachuting, he had over 400 jumps to his credit.

Dee was also a licensed pilot, a motorcyclist and a sports car enthusiast, participating in many car rallies. He was an avid backpacker and hiker making many hikes up to Spirit Lake and Lost Lake in New Mexico. He worked 38 years as a welder for Cabot Fab Shop and its successors.

In anticipation of his retirement, Dee set up his company called "Crude Creations" making hand-carved Spanish doors, gates and furniture and repairing antique furniture.

One of Dee's greatest joys was his friendship and comradery with the little folks on his block. He loved to play games and ride bicycles with them and listen to their problems, always giving them sound, grandfatherly advice. They affectionately called him "Mr. Dee." 

Dee was a born-again Christian and a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Panhandle. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Winifred Goodman, and his brother-in-law, Jesse Hobbs. He is survived by his sister, Joyce Hobbs, and several cousins.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, in the First Methodist Church of Panhandle.  Service are under the direction of Minton Chatwell Funeral Directors of Panhandle.

Memorials may be made to your favorite charity.