Ronald Kells Goodenow, 77, of Northborough, passed suddenly on October 28, 2018 with his wife by his side. He will be remembered for his impressive intellect, good-natured gregariousness, devotion to loved ones, and lifelong commitment to using his gifts for the betterment of the world. Goodenow was born in 1941 in Newark, New Jersey and graduated from Grinnell College in Iowa (B.A.) in 1963.
In keeping with his characteristically active and curious mind, he then followed his passion for the study of history to the University of Wyoming (M. A) and to the University of California at Berkeley where he earned his PhD, in 1973, in the History of Education. Goodenow began his distinguished academic career first as a scholar and professor of the history of education at SUNY Buffalo, eventually expanding his research to the study of information technology and its applications in organizations, social environments, and healthcare.
Over several decades as an educator he taught at many schools and universities including Trinity College in Hartford, Clark University in Worcester, Boston University, and others throughout the United States and internationally. He also published extensively throughout his career across a broad range of expertise in education and technology. In his 60’s, Ron discovered additional purpose as an active member of Rotary International.
His dedication to Rotary’s community building and social justice work was recognized during his tenure as President of the Northborough chapter of Rotary, and again 2013 when he was awarded a Rotary International District Service Award. Ron was an avid photographer, particularly of trains and landscapes. It would surprise no one that, like all creative and intellectual pursuits he applied himself to, he did this well.
He contributed a massive archive of train photos to the Friends of Amtrak gallery, which can be viewed online, and enjoyed documenting the seasonal beauty of central Massachusetts. He built a side business doing photography for real estate and local events. He was also a lifelong music enthusiast.
Ron is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carol Goodenow, his daughter and son-in-law Rachel Goodenow and Obadiah Greenberg of Berkeley, California, daughter and son-in-law Ellen and Rodrigo Garcia of San Francisco, California, and three grandchildren: Theodore, Ada, and Inigo. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, November 7, at Pickering & Son Westborough Funeral Home, 62 West Main St., Westborough, from 4-7 PM. A private family memorial will be held at a later time, in California.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, well-wishers donate to Rotary International or the American Civil Liberties Union as a tribute to Ron’s values and generous spirit.
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