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MINNEAPOLIS (March 22, 2016) – John B. Goodman, author, speaker and visionary chairman of The Goodman Group, passed away Sunday, March 20, from complications following a heart attack, the company has announced.

John led The Goodman Group, based in Chaska, Minn., since 1976. Originally founded as Sage Company by his father Sidney A. Goodman, The Goodman Group today is a leader in developing and managing senior living communities, residential communities and commercial properties in 10 states. He also was the author of two books: The Road to Self: Reflections from a Soulful CEO, and Moments Matter: Everyday Inspiration from a Soulful CEO.

“John’s mission was to change how people experience aging and death by resetting the standard of senior care and living,” said Craig Edinger, chief operating officer, The Goodman Group. “His philosophy put people at the heart of our company. His ever-advancing insight showed us what’s possible in the quality of care for others. He touched us with the depth of his compassion and his relentless drive to always do more in the service of others.”

Edinger steps into the executive-in-charge role effective immediately. He and The Goodman Group’s executive leadership team will work together to carry John’s vision forward in all aspects of the company. No changes are anticipated in the company’s day-to-day business activities.

John and his team of 4,300 employees celebrated the company’s 50^th anniversary in 2015. The company was honored with the prestigious 2014 Performance Excellence Advancement Level Award, based on Malcolm Baldrige Criteria. The company in 2015 also was the first long-term care and residential property management company in Minnesota to be named a Yellow Ribbon Company for its support of military service members and their families.

Former U.S. Senator Norm Coleman said, “There was a spiritual side of John that came from his heart and soul. He was the most loving human being I have ever met in my life. He brimmed with love. He loved the seniors and children he provided care for, the families, the caregivers, his employees, and was the most incredible friend I could have ever hoped to have. The world will not be the same without him.”

John’s life-long commitment to business leadership, community service and philanthropy was remarkable. He served dozens of organizations in roles ranging from board member to benefactor. He also established several nonprofit organizations, including Intergenerational Living & Health Care, Inc., the Caregivers Support Network and the Johnny B. Good Foundation.

National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations Board Chairman and NJK Holding Corporation Chairman and Founder Nasser J. Kazeminy said, “’I’ve never met a man more caring and more giving than John. He had a heart larger than life and always wanted the best for everyone. John had a golden heart and treated every single person he met, no matter their background, with precisely the same sense of dignity, compassion and concern. It was my privilege to have John as my dearest friend and business partner.”

Chairman and Founder of Schussler Creative, Inc. Steve Schussler said, “John Goodman’s unconditional love for his family, friends, and team was always evident. He touched and enriched the lives of countless others. His larger than life presence and laughter lit up every room.”

John’s obituary is available via the Star Tribune’s website.

John’s headshot and press release available via Dropbox.

John’s biography available via The Goodman Group’s website.

John’s memorial site available at: www.johnbgoodmanmemorial.com.

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