Jonathan Seth Goodrich

Jonathan was born on November 1, 1957, to Darrell Kay and Sherral Ames Goodrich. Jonathan was named after Jonathan in the Bible who was faithful and true. The name Seth came from a great uncle who was killed in World War I in France. Jonathan passed away on September 11, 2025, at the age of 67. He grew up in Bountiful, Utah and graduated from Viewmont High School. He met his wife Theresa Jo (Terri) Kofford in Altamont, Utah where they started a family of three children, Seth, Chelann, and Kylee Jo. They were married in the Provo Temple, June 12, 1981. He loved his wife and children dearly and found great joy in his granddaughter Emma.

Jonathan was a man of many gifts and boundless talent. From a young age, he developed a love for sports. Jonathan enjoyed many sports as he grew up both as a spectator as well as a participant. His greatest interest was in baseball. He played for years in the Cops League in Salt Lake as a pitcher and an outfielder. He also enjoyed basketball, football and track as a spectator. He went to many of these events with his family for many years at BYU.

Jonathan caught his first fish when he was six. At the time he was suspicious that he had received some help, and he was right. He fished many times as a child in the Lake Fork catching many trout. One summer he landed a beautiful three-pound German Brown. It was mounted on a plaque for him and hung on his bedroom wall for many years. Over the years, he tied tens of thousands of his own flies, each one a work of art, and he generously shared his knowledge as a fishing guide. There was a beauty in the way he fished, each cast flowing with grace. To Jonathan, the river was more than water; it was a place of renewal, connection, and joy, especially when shared with family and friends. Very seldom did he not catch a fish, the fish came to him.

Jonathan had a deep love for animals from the time he was young, and they seemed to share a special connection with him. Cats, dogs, and other creatures were naturally drawn to him, sensing the kindness and affection he carried for them. Animals often chose his company over others, as if they instinctively knew he was a true friend. As a boy, he raised pigeons and could spend endless hours with them, making it nearly impossible to pull him away.

During the years Jonathan and Terri lived in Altamont he worked at Falcons Ledge as a cook, a guide for other falconers, and in teaching guests how to fly fish on the many ponds of Falcons Ledge. In the kitchen, Jonathan’s talent for cooking was just as strong — he could cook anything and make it taste good, always creating meals that brought people together.

Jonathan’s creativity and determination extended well beyond the riverbank. First, he crafted stained glass overlay, then owned a bagel store, and later built a thriving business selling Hosta's. He created beautiful landscaping with natural rock and plants. Most recently, he managed Morgan Mercantile, where his natural talent for connecting with people and his ability to sell just about anything was part of who he was. He was known as “The Fishing Guy”.

From the time he worked in the bagel shop until his death, Jonathan struggled with heart problems but still worked every day from morning until night. Even at his lowest, he continued to share his love of the outdoors and fishing through his work.

From the time of Terri’s passing Jonathan mourned her loss. Even in the face of that he continued to be active in his faith, his family, friends, and work. We are happy that he is now at peace after his reunion with Terri and other family members, especially his brother Roland. His friendship with Roland was one of his greatest treasures.

Jonathan’s love of the Lord sustained him through all of life’s challenges. During the years he and Terri lived in Altamont he served in several church callings. His faith guided him and gave him strength throughout his life.

He was a kind and generous soul, always willing to share his talents, stories, and time. Jonathan’s hands were rarely still, but even more remarkable than what he made was the way he made people feel — encouraged, cared for, and loved.

Jonathan is survived by his children, Seth (Aleaha), Chelann Andrade (Alan), and Kylee; his mother Sherral; and his siblings, Ethan (Iride), Garth, Natalie Tholen (Michael), Penny Chinchay (Peter), and Craig (Deanna); and sisters-in-law, Teresa Goodrich and Jill Goodrich. They will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his wife Terri, his father Darrell, and two brothers, Nathan and Roland.

Those who knew Jonathan will remember his quiet strength, his dependable nature, and his warm spirit. He worked hard not for recognition, but because it was who he was — a man who gave his best in everything, whether to his craft, his work, or his family.

Jonathan’s life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and love. His absence leaves an empty space, but the memories and legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire and comfort those who knew him.

“Come and share one last “cast” in memory of Jonathan by joining us for his Celebration of Life.” For those that want to fish there is a pond at the park so bring your fly rods and fishing license. Limit of two fish per person or catch and release.

Location: Jensen Nature Park 3176 S Bluff Rd, Syracuse, UT Date: September 23, 2025 Time: 6:00–9:00 pm | Tribute: 6:30 pm

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Russon Brothers Mortuary for the care and respect they have shown to Jonathan and to our family.