Stanley J Goodbar

Mr. Stanley Goodbar, born in Great Falls, Montana on October 14, 1929, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, at the age of 94. Throughout his life, Stan's journey was one of dedication and service to his country, community, and family.

Raised in the serene community of Chester in northern Montana, Stan's early years were marked by a passion for both sports and music. He excelled in high school basketball and played the clarinet in the school band. Following his graduation, he pursued higher education at the University of Montana but put his studies on hold to serve his country during the Korean War. Enlisting in the Navy, Stan completed two tours of duty off the coast of Korea on an aircraft carrier before concluding his military service at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii.

Upon his discharge from the Navy, Stan returned to the University of Montana and successfully obtained his degree in 1956. He embarked on a distinguished career with Mountain States Telephone Company in Missoula, where he held various management roles over three decades. His leadership extended to different locations including Helena and Denver, where he made significant contributions to the telecommunications industry. Stan culminated his professional journey as Assistant to the Vice President and Director of External Affairs before retiring in Cheyenne in 1986.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Stan was deeply committed to community engagement wherever life took him. His altruistic spirit led him to serve in leadership capacities for organizations such as Billings Kiwanis, The Salvation Army - Billings, St. Vincent's Hospital Advisory Board - Billings, YMCA boards in Billings and Cheyenne, as well as active involvement in numerous chambers of commerce and United Way chapters. Notably, he was a respected figure within the western heritage community through memberships with organizations like Yellowstone Corral of Westerners - Billings and Cheyenne Corral of Westerners.

Stan's interests extended beyond his professional and community engagements to encompass a profound love for Western art collection and fly fishing. His generous donation of Western art to the University of Montana stands as a testament to his enduring passion for preserving cultural heritage.

In his personal life, Stan shared cherished moments with his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Donna. He is preceded in death by his parents Roy and Lillian Goodbar, cherished wife Donna, son Richard, and daughter Karla Kay, and is survived by his beloved sister, Carolyn Seay, niece Stephanie Reynolds and nephew Stephen Seay of Texas. 

Stan will be remembered fondly by all those who had the privilege of knowing him for his unwavering dedication to service and his vibrant passion for life. May he rest in peace knowing that his legacy lives on through memories that continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with this remarkable individual.