John Ruby Goode

John Ruby Goode, 95, of San Pedro, California, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025. Born in Des Moines, Iowa to Robert "Lefty" and Helen Ruby Goode, John led a life marked by dedication to his profession, family, adventure and community.

A graduate of Roosevelt High School's class of 1947, John pursued his education at the University of Michigan, where he distinguished himself as a member of the Freshman Golf Team. His passion for dentistry led him to the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, where he graduated in 1955. Following graduation, John served his country for two years in the US Army Dental Corps, stationed in Uijeongbu, South Korea and Fort Riley, Kansas.

Upon returning from military service, John completed his graduate training in Orthodontics at the University of Iowa. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Lydia Ann Saggau, a graduate of the University of Iowa College of Nursing. The couple married on November 14, 1958, beginning a beautiful partnership that would last until Lydia's passing in 2018.

In 1959, John and Lydia moved West, establishing one of the first orthodontic practices in the Palos Verdes Peninsula and made their home in San Pedro, California. Throughout his almost 50 years in practice, “Dr. Goode” was a beloved member of the community, and would often be seen driving between his office, Rolling Hills Country Club, Portuguese Bend Beach Club and his house in Rancho Palos Verdes in his iconic bright yellow 1966 Mustang Convertible. During this time he and Lydia raised their family and enjoyed the California lifestyle, hiking, skiing, surfing, and golf. He served as President of the San Pedro Kiwanis Club, Los Verdes Mens' Golf Club, and the Southern California Dental Golf Association. Following his retirement in 2007, John devoted more time to his passions for travel, skiing, and golf, pursuits in which he excelled and found great joy, maintaining a single digit handicap for over 50 years and skiing until his late 80’s.

John is survived by his brother Robert Goode II (Lee) and loving children, Katy Reich (Dan), Robert Goode III (Katherine), and Tom Goode (Melanie); and his cherished grandchildren Fallon Goode, Jack Goode, Grace Reich Snyder (Nick), and Tyler Reich.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on his behalf. A service celebrating John's life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Palos Verdes Shores Clubhouse, 2275 W. 25th Street, San Pedro, California 90732