Goff Thomas Smith died peacefully in his home in La Conner, Washington – while holding his wife Dodie Smith's hand, on Thursday, November 29th at 8:20pm. He fought valiantly against an aggressive form of cancer diagnosed less than 2 short months prior. The constant and tireless loving support, both day and night, of the love of his life (his wife of nearly 40 years), Dodie Smith, allowed for such a peaceful passing.

Goff was an incredible and unique human being who had a profound effect on others throughout his life. His sense of humor was quick and hilarious, immediately embraced by those around him and drawing them into a circle of laughter and joy. His lifelong generosity was awe-inspiring, paradoxically accompanied by his "black-belt" in frugality. His ability to help others through their struggles with simple wisdom and heart – through his inspiring words and actions – touched and affected many.

Goff was born on November 10, 1947 in Libertyville, IL to Goff and Nancy Smith. He graduated in 1965 from New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois, and from the University of Michigan in 1969 with a mechanical engineering degree. He married Dodie, his true love, in 1979.

After moving to the Northwest, Goff began working for Westinghouse in Seattle. As the Seattle branch-manager, Goff set regional and national sales-records and received many awards, including Branch of the Year. His entrepreneurial side motivated him to start his own business with his friend and coworker, Howard Benzel, and the duo supplied electrical equipment to massive corporate customers like Boeing. Having already garnered a respected name in the electrical industry, Goff continued to be known as a gifted salesman that was trustworthy, funny, and had a knack for always negotiating the better deal – no matter how large or small the contract.

Goff coached his sons in little league on through to the high-school level in both baseball and golf, and loved being able to share what he'd learned in life to help others navigate their future. He often sought out those older than him to gain wisdom and develop new friendships, and he always said he thought of the passing of an elder as akin to the "burning of book" – always feeling a sadness and regret at the unspoken wisdom and experience that had been lost.

Goff is survived by his wife, Dodie Smith, who resides in La Conner, Washington. He is also survived by his twin sister, Susan K. Schmidt, (Andrea) of Wisconsin, who received lifelong reminders that he had been born "8 minutes earlier". His sons Brian Goff Smith, a family medicine physician in New Mexico and in Guatemala, and Kevin Thomas Smith, who works in restaurant management in Denver, Colorado – are profoundly grateful for the blessing of such a unique father who practiced unconditional love through humor, generosity, wisdom and example.

A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, December 16, 2018 -- at Skagit Golf and Country Club at 2:00PM. All who knew and loved Goff are welcome to attend and celebrate Goff's life.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to NOAH (a no-kill animal shelter in Stanwood, Washington) at www.thenoahcenter.org