R. Scott Goodsell

Raymond Scott Goodsell (“Scott”) passed away on August 1, 2024 surrounded by the infinite love of his family and friends. From the day of his birth on June 6, 1946 to the day of his passing he was always a life source of kindness and laughter.

Scott grew up in Racine, Wisconsin. His father Raymond B.Goodsell was the second generation President of Racine Plating Company. Scott’s mother, Janet R. (née Hood) Goodsell was a devoted mother and homemaker. His family included siblings Judy Beth (who passed from a childhood illness), Gary, Mary, and Nancy. Through his parents he found a love of art, the beauty of nature and landscape, travel, politics, competition and sports. Scott graduated in 1964 from Washington Park High School in Racine where he excelled in athletics. He was a member of the Varsity men’s swim team, golf team, and quarterback of the football team. During this time, he also met his high school sweetheart (Pamela Aiello) who would later become his bride.

Scott graduated in1969 from the University of Wisconsin- Madison with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Economics. Through hard work, education, training, and mentorship he learned the business and science of metal finishing. Racine Plating Company was founded in 1927 by his grandfather (Raymond M. Goodsell). Scott worked with his father and alongside his brother (Gary) to become an owner of the third generation electroplating corporation. He later earned the title of President of Racine Plating Company. In 2005, he retired and the nearly eighty year old business was sold. Following his retirement, he could be found assisting his daughters at their downtown Racine gift boutique, Elegant Pauper. He also enjoyed his time as a transportation driver (and part-time “entertainer”) of Seniors in need at Ridgewood Care Center.

Scott was united in marriage on February 8,1969 to his adoring and loving wife Pamela (née Aiello) in Racine. They celebrated fifty-five years of marriage this year and created a beautiful family, home, and life together. Scott had a tremendous sense of pride in his daughters, Dana and Regan. He was the original “Girl Dad”. He loved his beautiful girls beyond measure and instilled a commitment to family, pride in one’s work, and a great sense of humor in the adventures of life. Scott also had a great love of animals which included nine Afghan Hounds (Taji, Label, TuTu, Elliott, Remington, Montgomery, Rockefeller, Baron, and Caviar) and a Standard Poodle (Vincenzo aka “Vinny Boom Ba”).

In addition to the love of his family, Scott had a passion for many pastimes. He was an extreme enthusiast and season ticket holder of all Wisconsin professional sports. As a child he loved the Chicago Cubs (especially his favorite player, Ernie Banks “Mr Cub”), the Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and of course Wisconsin football- the Green Bay Packers and his beloved University of Wisconsin Badgers….Go Bucky! His favorite place and heart’s desire was truly his own backyard. Landscaping, planting, dropping trees with his chainsaw, and perfecting a diamond mowing pattern to the envy of his neighbors all brought him tremendous joy and accomplishment. With a great sense of adventure he loved to travel both near and far. He experienced trips as a child skiing in Aspen, and sunning in Acapulco and Havana. As an adult he enjoyed many memorable family vacations to Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, China, and Russia. Scott is also remembered for his love of music and entertainment. Always the entertainer; he loved a microphone and singing bold songs, love songs, and a female power ballad.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond B. and Janet R. Goodsell, and his sister Judy B. Goodsell; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Justy and Carmela (née Bianco) Aiello. He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, Pamela; his beloved daughters Dana Goodsell and Regan Goodsell, both of Chicago. His dearest sister Mary Patterson and brother-in-law Michael; siblings Gary Goodsell, Nancy Mullen, and their families; and the Zwettler families. He is also survived by adored nieces and nephews; Brooke Patterson, Brian (Agnieszka) Patterson, Katherine (Jason) Gruettner; very special great nieces and nephew, Charlotte and Evelyn Gruettner and Oliver Patterson; his additional bonus family Lenisa, Liam, and Finn Doherty, Gina Totero, and Pamela Mersinger; and his loving and faithful fur companions Baron, Caviar, and Vincenzo.

Scott will be deeply missed forever. His presence is irreplaceable. He will live on through the hearts and minds of all that knew and loved him. Scott had a very giving spirit and generously donated his corneas, offering the gift of sight to two individuals. A private ceremony of internment was held at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery with the Rite of Committal by Deacon Greg Petro. A beautiful private celebration of life was held overlooking the peaceful gardens he created at the family home; this very special service was given by his dear cousin, Chaplain Steve Zwettler. Memorials may be sent to honor Scott’s passion for animals and nature to the University of Wisconsin (School of Veterinary Medicine) Pets Make a Difference Fund where 100% of donations support cancer research and animal health. http://supportuw.org/giveto/GoodsellMemorial. You may also consider funds directed to the family; personal donations will be made to the Racine Zoological Society for a Memorial Tree in his honor. Send to mailbox: Dana S. Goodsell 6177 N. Lincoln Avenue #219 Chicago, Illinois 60659