Jack Landess Goodrich

Jack Landess Goodrich, 81, of Castle Pines, Colorado, passed away on August 9, 2025. Born on December 5, 1943, in Buffalo, New York, Jack lived a life filled with purpose, adventure, and unwavering service to others.

Jack earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Zoology from Fresno State College and went on to graduate from the University of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco. He served in the United States Naval Dental Corps Reserve before going on active duty at the Naval Dental Center in San Diego. Jack practiced dentistry for over 50 years, dedicating himself to the care of his patients with skill and compassion. He also shared his expertise as an instructor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

A man committed to his community, Jack served as President of the San Leandro Boys and Girls Club and founded the Davis Street Family Resource Center, which provided free dental care to those in need. His lifelong dedication to humanitarian service touched countless lives.

In October 2006, Jack and his beloved wife, Deanna, moved to Castle Pines, Colorado, where they built a new chapter filled with friendship, service, and travel. Together, they experienced the joy of family, the beauty of the world, and the deep fulfillment of shared faith and love.

Jack was a devout Christian who read the Bible daily and found God's presence both in scripture and in the natural world. His passions included woodworking, fly fishing, golfing, cycling, camping, traveling, cooking, and above all spending time with Deanna, the love of his life. Fittingly, on the day he passed, Jack spent the morning golfing with Deanna and the afternoon fly fishing, two of the activities he cherished most, before God called him home.

He is survived by his wife, Deanna Goodrich; daughters Juliette Goodrich (Gregory Hitchan) and Jacqueline Svoboda (Michael Svoboda); stepson Tony Lere (Kristin Lere); and grandchildren Taylor, Kendall, and Cameron Hitchan; Landis and Hunter Svoboda; Owen, Ryan, and Sophia Lere. Known affectionately as "Boppa," Jack adored his grandchildren and treasured every moment spent with them.

Jack was preceded in death by his stepson, Andrew Lere; his parents, Philip and Marie Goodrich; and his brother, Chip Goodrich. 

Jack's daughters, Juliette and Jacqueline, feel incredibly grateful for the hours their father spent talking with them about anything and everything, serious or silly, joyful or tearful. He filled their lives with unconditional love, adventure, and the steady reassurance that if something was broken, be it an object or a heart, Dad could fix it. Their love for him is deep, and his absence will be felt profoundly. 

Deanna's extended family cherished Jack deeply. His grandchildren knew that bedtime stories with Boppa were magical moments filled with wonder. In the kitchen, Jack was a master not only for the meals he prepared, but for the warmth and laughter he shared. He was adored by the "Yaya Sisters" (Deanna and her sisters Denise and Dinah) and was the heart of the "Yoyos" (the sisters' husbands, Randy and Kirk), offering strength, love, and quiet guidance to the entire family. Tony and Kristin deeply valued the time Jack spent with them and their children and the steady presence he brought to their lives. More than that, they felt Jack's love for them in a way that went beyond titles, he loved them as if they were his own children. His support, warmth, and acceptance meant the world to them, and they will always carry his love in their hearts.

Jack listened deeply, cared generously, and loved without reservation. His kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His memory will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.

To know Jack was to love Jack.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The Boys and Girls Club of San Leandro or Davis Street of San Leandro.