Jack Perry Goodwin

Jack Perry Goodwin, Korean POW and founder of North Waco Tropical Fish, died peacefully at his home Sunday December 29th at the age of 89.

Visitation will be Thursday January 2nd at Grace Gardens Funeral Home from 5-6:30 pm, a private family burial will happen at a later date.

Jack was one of the first American soldiers to enter the Korean war as part of Task Force Smith. He was taken prisoner on July 5th, 1950. He spent 38 months in captivity before returning home. Sadly nearly 60% of the soldiers taken prisoner never returned home. There is now only 32 survivors alive today. Jack was the historian for the Task Force Smith survivors group and helped countless families in obtaining information about their loved ones, many of whom never came home. He did countless interviews about his captivity and returned 2 times to Korea to visit a museum Honoring Task Force Smith.

Jack returned from captivity to come home to the love of his life, Violet Ellen Hoare. They soon married, started a family and started North Waco Tropical Fish in 1964 which is still in operation with 4 generations having worked  there.

Violet suffered a severe stroke and Jack devoted decades of his life to taking care of her.  They would wear the same shirts and many people would notice them when they were out together.

Upon Violet's passing in 2014, Jack enjoyed the company of his family, including 3 great grandchildren. Unfortunately he wont be here to welcome his fourth great grandchild due in January.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Sue Goodwin. Her husband Neal Libak. Two granddaughters, Samantha and husband Shawn Linafelter. Morgan and husband Cody Brown.

Two great granddaughters, Brinna and Chloe. One great grandson, Parker and soon to arrive Hudson.

He is also survived by his brother, Horace Lee Goodwin and sister Betty Barnes.

Tell Mawmaw we love her! One and One forever!