Condolence: Ahhh...Lisa, I just heard today that your dad had passed. I really liked your dad. He was caring, genuine, and interesting. You must really miss him. I am sorry for your loss. p.s. When we would chat over lunch and your name came up, he always seemed so proud of you. God Bless Bill Walsh

Condolence: Jim was a wonderful person. Always the first to volunteer his services, kind, thoughtful and a true gentleman.

Condolence: Mr. Goodrich was the head of the Staples trivia team while I was on it. He was an incredible thoughtful, caring, and passionate person who made the team so special. It was an honor to spend time with him.

Condolence: Jim was truly one of the good guys. He was helpful, outgoing, and always seemed content with life. Through him, my kids understand and appreciate the kindness of neighbors. We are lucky to have known him.

Condolence: Dear Luisa, I am so sorry that Jim lost this hard fought battle. He was such an incredible smart, caring, and positive person that I feel truly lucky to have known him. I am leaving on a business trip to California, and will not be able to attend the service, but please know that my thoughts will be with you. Lots of Love -- Andrea Reiner

Condolence: Dear Louisa and family- I was so completely saddened to hear about Jim and I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. I am heartbroken; you were both so sweet and kind to our family after the loss of Abby. It takes a special person who wants to dedicate time and talent as a teacher and coach-and Jim did it with such enthusiasm. I remember the first time I saw Jim in the stands at a Trumbull HS/Staples wrestling match and was so taken aback (out of context for me at the time!!) and I then introduced him to Charlie and the rest was all wrestling, all the time! :) We will never forget Jim, such an amazing person who just loved life. Sending warm hugs and sunshine xoxo

Condolence: I was a Staples Soccer player and student of Jim's who graduated in 2016. He was one of the only adults at Staples that I truly looked up to. He always told me great stories of traveling and always embodied what a father figure was to me. We also shared a passion for Staples Soccer. My parents remember sitting next to him at my Senior Day Soccer game, they chatted together about Argentina and boating. That game was the first time my parents got to see me score a goal, they won't ever forget it. They came home and told me "we were sitting next to the nicest guy at the game!" I was so filled with joy that they got to meet him. Even though I graduated two years ago, God fortunately gave me the chance to see him one last time at the Staples Soccer 60th Anniversary game last month. When I asked him how he was doing, he lifted his hat and told me about his suffering health. Even despite this, he asked me all about how I was enjoying college and he was still in as good of spirits as he always was. That positive, calm attitude he had towards his tough situation and towards life... I will keep with me forever. I strive to grow up to be as good of a man as he was. His loyalty for Staples is something that has been passed down onto me. His legacy lives in each and every one of the people whose lives he touched, I truly believe that. I am so sorry for your loss and although words can never heal the pain, I wanted you to know how grateful I am for having known Jim. His legacy will live forever. Sending Love, Andres Marmelo

Condolence: Dear Luisa and family, My heart aches for you. I was so sorry to hear the sad news about Jim. He was an exceptional person who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. May God's love comfort and sustain you now and in the days to come. "The mystery of love is greater than the mystery of death." Your friend, Rose Jordan

Condolence: Mr. Goodrich was my substitute teacher, my biggest fan, and a role model. He was always there to cheer us on in the classroom and on the field. I’ll never forget his welcoming smile and positive energy. Staples and the Westport community were lucky to have Mr. Goodrich and we will honor him by smiling and cheering loud for others.

Condolence: I am so very sorry for your loss. Jim was truly one of the great guys. I was the wrestling coach at Staples HS when Jim approached me about helping out, I could see in his eyes and his demeanor that he was a great guy and I was right. His infectious enthusiasm made him a kid favorite. Jim was always ready to jump in and do what was needed. I am now with Warde HS and we returned to wrestle Staples last season and I was thrilled when I looked in the stands and saw Jim, we exchanged smiles and waves and as soon as the match had ended we made our way to each other and exchanged a hearty hand shake and a warm embrace. We talked for 10-15 minutes and it was as if I saw him everyday, he was that type of person. Please take your time grieving your lose and always be comforted in the fact that your Jim was a great guy in a time where they are rare. God bless Jim and all of his family and friends.

Condolence: As a 2013 graduate of Staples High School I was always delighted to converse with and learn from Mr. Goodrich when he was my substitute teacher. I recall him telling me numerous stories of travelling the globe and a lifelong thirst for exploration, tales that inspired me to travel myself after I graduated. When I look back at my time in Westport I fondly remember the warm welcoming smile on his face every time he stepped into the classroom, and the ageless enthusiasm he brought to the fan section at soccer matches. I wish the deepest condolences to the Goodrich family.

Condolence: Wow. Condolences to Jim's family. I am honored to have known him. What a stand-up guy! And more importantly, Jim was a mentor to me as a Freshman and Sophomore at Staples High School. During the Recession of 2008/2009, the Westport Public Schools was asked to cut budgets by $1.4m. As a longtime supporter of education, Jim and I linked up to see if we could get the proposed cuts reversed. He helped me and many other classmates organize a massive rally on Town Hall, megaphones, cameras and all. He helped us fight the good fight. While I don't quite remember how the results shook out, I do remember that Jim was such a class act throughout it all. His unwavering support for quality education, his connection to young students, and his passion for a life full of zest is something I will forever appreciate. RIP Jim. Glad to have known you.

Condolence: Ohh my heart. I’m so saddened by this news, but so grateful to have been able to meet Jim in my time on Cape Cod. I was especially happy to see him one last time at the restaurant I work at just in time before the season ended, and a quick wave from the cafe he and Luisa visited in that trip before they left for home. He had such kindness in his face and the way he spoke. This time, he took special care to make sure we knew he cared, too. My deepest condolences to the family, especially Luisa. This loss will be felt deeply, but visit the memories as much as you possibly can. Much love.

Condolence: Luisa, It has been almost 12 years since we left the "lane", but we remember you and Jim fondly. We are so sorry for your loss and wish you and your family the best during this tough time. From our time knowing Jim, and this wonderful tribute, it seems clear that your husband was a special person. Lots of love, Annie and Jim Haskel

Condolence: Jim was one of the finest gentlemen I’ve ever met. He was a friend to me and to my two boys. As my oldest said, all the high school students loved him. And that says a lot. Condolences to the family

Condolence: Lovely obituary for a life ever so well lived. My heart hurts for you. Jim died much too young. You’re in my prayers. Frank

Condolence: Jim , although he had an abundance of hair, was a member of the Bald Men's Breakfast Club at Staples. The group met before school to discuss a variety of topics but primarily focused on students and their activities. Jim loved young people and was an asset to an exceptional high school filled with wonderful young people. Jim's attendance at athletic, artistic and academic events was a demonstration of how much he cared. SHS has fond memories of a great man.

Condolence: I had Mr. Goodrich as a substitute at Staples as well as an advisor for the BBQ club. He was one of the kindest teachers that I ever had at Staples. My heart goes out to his family.

Condolence: Dear Mr. Goodrich's family, Mr. Goodrich was my favorite substitute teacher. He always said hi to me in the halls and made going to school everyday less intimidating. His some was contagious and so was his positive attitude. He was truly the most amazing man i have ever met. He was a huge light in a dark world. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I know he is in a better place and is smiling down on you with so much love. Carly Singer

Condolence: Jim touched so many lived in a positive manner. Feel fortunate to have known him. Our condolences to all his family members.

Condolence: Dear Mr. Goodrich's Family and Friends, I am sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of learning from and laughing with Mr. Goodrich during my four years at Staples High School. Mr. Goodrich is the epitome of a teacher who cares. As Director of Sports @ WWPT and President of Staples Superfans, Mr. Goodrich was always a class-act offering to help me with my projects and rallying the troops to the soccer field and other Wreckers sports. Whether on the hill or in the cafeteria, Mr. Goodrich took time out of his day to get to know each of the Staples students and make sure they were leaving his classroom/school grounds with a smile. My high school experience is unimaginable with out seeing Mr. Goodrich’s smile in the hallways and being alongside him cheering on the soccer teams. Mr. Goodrich- Thank you for everything. Thank you for allowing me to interrupt your daily newspaper readings, for me to ask you for your help. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to ask me about my day. To ask me about my goals after high school. For being the teacher who wasn’t too cool to be seen outside of school at Wreckers games. To Mr. Goodrich’s grandson- It pains me that you did not have as much time with your grandfather as I know he would have liked. Although they will never fill this void, I hope my letter and the letters from the rest of the Westport community will keep his spirit alive. Rest In Peace Mr. Goodrich, Steven R. Warshavsky Staples High School ’16

Condolence: I loved working with Jim at BMS and SHS and especially as a co-adviser to the Staples Challenge Team. Jim was always incredibly thoughtful, hard-working, and persuasive. He became convinced that I needed to replace my beat-up Volvo wagon and visited the Honda dealer to locate what he deemed a decent car. I really had no choice; I am still driving my Honda Accord! He leaves so many of us with many wonderful memories.

Condolence: Such fond memories of sitting with Jim at soccer games. Always front row lower left with the students. He loved the game AND his students. Our love goes out to all of his family. Sincerely The Greenlees

Condolence: We are so sorry for your loss. Jim was a wonderful colleague, a thoughtful and intelligent man, a role model for the students at Staples. Our thoughts are with you. Lis and Frank

Condolence: Truly an exceptional man. A bright and witty figure who earned the respect of everyone who knew him. I was lucky enough to encounter him in the halls of Staples and to have him as a substitute, and I still look back on our conversations and repartee in the hallways with great fondness. My deepest condolences.

Condolence: Mr. Goodrich was always my favorite substitute at staples. He knew my Mom very well and we always had great conversations in which he would always give me words of wisdom. He certainly will be missed in the Staples community!

Condolence: A truly amazing guy. Had him as a substitute teacher always brightened up the room when he walked in. I’ve had great memories with him and never failed to put a smile on my face with his stories. My deepest condolences.

Condolence: I'm so sorry to hear about Jim. What a wonderful man and mentor to the Staples Sailing Team! Our daughter Molly was lucky to have Jim as a coach and I enjoyed many conversations and laughs with Jim while waiting for the kids to de-rig. He was so kind, understanding and supportive. He will be missed.

Condolence: Dear Luisa and Family, I am so sorry to learn of Jim's death. There are no words that can comfort you - at least I do not have them. But you are in my heart and thoughts. He will be missed. Love, Pat

Condolence: Lisa, I'm so sorry to learn of Jim's death. Please accept my most sincere sympathy. I will miss seeing him at the occasional events around town. He was a treasure for Westport. Yours, Catherine

Condolence: I was a colleague of Jim's, as we both started teaching at the Old Bedford on Riverside Avenue. He was kind and friendly to students and colleagues alike. My life is so much better for having known him. I hope he is at peace. And, I extend my deepest condolences to his family. His presence is missed tremendously.

Condolence: I was fortunate to get to know Jim as he was an avid fan of the Staples wrestling team, where my three sons all wrestled. He was so nice to talk with during that nerve wracking time. His calming influence and genuine caring for the boys and the sport were just wonderful. He will be greatly missed.

Condolence: Jim was a wonderful colleague and friend at Staples High School. I enjoyed so many conversations with him and will deeply miss his intelligence, thoughtful observations and many kindnesses over the years. Lisa, I especially loved being updated on how you were doing as I remember you fondly from your Staples days. My sincere condolences to Jim's entire family.

Condolence: Dear Louisa and Andrew, my condolences on Jim's death. Indeed, he lived a rich and good life and you have been enriched by it. How fortunate you were to have had him in your lives.

Condolence: Dear Louisa, I was so saddened to hear this news about Jim. I could tell from our brief encounters over the years what joy he brought into your life. Please know you are in our thoughts and sending love to you and your family. Love, Eloise

Condolence: Dear Goodrich family, I so missed seeing Jim in the halls and supposed that he had retired after all. Was very saddened to hear of this passing as he was an ever-ready strong presence here at the school. Miss him. Wishing you treasured memories and comfort in the days to come Best, Camille Eskell

Condolence: I am a secretary at SHS and Jim was one of my daily subs. Over the past 5 years Jim was not only a co-worker but a friend. I will miss him every day and wish his family all my sympathy and prayers. I so enjoyed the special smile on his face when he was sharing pictures of his beautiful grandson.