Obituary of Frank W Goodhart

Frank Goodhart, a pioneering figure in the pharmaceutical industry and a renowned conifer expert, passed away peacefully on August 4th at the age of 91 in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. Born in 1932 in Centre Hall, Pennsylvania, Frank led a life marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to his passions.

After earning PhDs in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Philosophy from Purdue University, Frank embarked on a distinguished career in the pharmaceutical industry. He made significant contributions through his numerous patents, including the development of slow-release capsules for medications and the early soft contact lens system design. His innovative work has left an enduring impact and improved countless lives.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Frank was a devoted horticulturist and one of the foremost experts on conifer trees in the nation. As a past president of the American Conifer Society, he played a central role in helping the Frelinghuysen Arboretum become a Reference Garden for the ACS. His love for plants extended beyond his professional pursuits, as he cultivated new species and nurtured a profound appreciation for the natural world. His knowledge and enthusiasm for conifers were unparalleled, and he generously shared his expertise in plant propagation through volunteering at both the Frelinghuysen and Willowwood Arboreta. Frank also regularly contributed articles to the American Conifer Society, enriching the community with his insights and discoveries.

Through the years, Frank amassed an impressive collection of dwarf conifers and other unusual companion plants. He and his wife, Joan, have generously donated more than 50 plants representing 21 species to the Frelinghuysen Arboretum. His contributions have enriched the gardens, with many of his plants now thriving near the Haggerty Education Center and in the Pinetum. Copper tags on the specimens proudly bear his name, and new signage provides more information about dwarf conifers and their use in gardens.

Frank was also a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church of Morristown, along with Joan, for 50 years. They were actively involved in the church community, contributing their time and efforts to the upkeep of the church grounds and supporting various church activities. 

A man of strength and resilience, Frank embodied the very qualities he admired in the trees he studied. His sturdy character and gentle spirit were evident to all who knew him. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, whose legacy will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Frank Goodhart is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Joan, and their two children, Anne Blood (Peter) and John Goodhart (Susan). He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Katharine Blood, Eric Blood, William Goodhart, and Ryan Goodhart. Family, friends, and colleagues will remember him for his extraordinary contributions, his deep love for nature, and his unwavering dedication to his family.

A public service to honor Frank's life and legacy will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Presbyterian Church in Morristown or the Friends of the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in his memory.

Frank Goodhart will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.