September 16, 1942 – July 27, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Walter, at the age of 81 years, at Grace Hospice in Winnipeg.
He was predeceased by his wife Roberta (nee Congdon) and parents, Clayton and Jessie Good.
Left to cherish many fond memories are daughters, Kelly (Todd), and Carolyn (Eric); and his grandchildren, Connor and Maggie. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Sandra (Donald); niece Sarah (Richard); and aunt Denise (William); in addition to wonderful lifelong friends and colleagues.
Born in Grand Bank, Newfoundland, Walter was raised in Toronto, where he attended the University of Toronto before earning his MSc, PhD, and MBA at Michigan State University. After graduating in 1969, Walter joined the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Management (now the I.H. Asper School of Business). Over the course of 40 years, he taught and served as the Associate Dean, Department Head of Marketing, was a guest lecturer internationally and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal amongst other awards.
Driven by his interest in entrepreneurship, Walter authored a self-help guide for small business owners called Building a Dream: A Canadian Guide to Starting Your Own Business, now in its 12th edition. A highly respected figure in the marketing community, he was dedicated to coaching, mentoring, and inspiring others to follow their dreams, and fostered lasting friendships with many former students and colleagues.
During his time at the University, Walter also met his wife Roberta, who became the love of his life for over 52 years. They lived in Fort Garry and Fort Richmond, where their shared love for travel took them to many countries, enjoying cruises, adventures, and unique experiences.
After retiring, Walter and Roberta relocated to St. Vital and spent their winters in Palm Springs, California, for more than a decade and enjoyed spending quality time with a close-knit group of friends. In 2021, they moved to The Courtyards at Linden Pointe, where they formed new friendships within the community.
Walter was passionate about the outdoors, including fun-filled fishing trips, golf outings and cheering on his favorite sports teams.
Known for his warm and welcoming personality, Walter had a gift for storytelling and enjoyed sharing tales from his incredible travels around the world. We will dearly miss Walter’s charismatic presence, sharp wit, outgoing nature and clever insights. Best known as the ‘Silver Fox’, Walter brought joy to everyone he met and will always hold a special place in the hearts of his family and many friends.
Cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life along with interment will occur on August 13.
In the spirit of carrying his legacy forward, and in lieu of flowers, donations in his name can be made to the University of Manitoba, “Class of 1972 Scholarship in Management” (contact Donor Relations at 431-374-6345).
8 thoughts on “Walter Stephen Good”
Walter was a big presence on our annual Niagara Timberwolf golf trip to Minnesota. His great sense of humour and stories were appreciated by all. I enjoyed having him in the annual hockey pool but have yet to forgive for beating the Maddogs as a key player on the Maroons! RIP my friend
Dear Kelly and Carolyn,
We are sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing and hope that happy memories bring comfort.
Holding you close in our hearts.
Annette and Volker Lange
Vancouver, BC
Dear Kelly
I am so sorry to read of your father’s recent passing. As you know Roberta was my friend for a good number of years after retirement and Howard and I met Walter during our famous trip to Istanbul and subsequently for dinners in Winnipeg and once in Palm Spring. The loss of parents takes part of you that can never be replaced but the memories are there.
Please pass on my sincere sympathies to your sister Carolyn and families.
Kelly and Family,
I am SO very sorry…we wish you and your family comfort during this difficult time,.. there are no words only love…xoxo
Benjamin and Dean
Dear Kelly, I did not know your mum and dad, but seeing these pictures, your dad’s broad smiles, the evident happiness of your lovely family, I feel I would have liked them a lot. You must be missing them terribly and i am so sorry for your loss. I send you and your sister all my love at this difficult time. Take good care.
Alexia
Dear Walter’s family,
I’m a colleague of Walter’s at the Asper School of Business, University of Manitoba. While I joined Asper too late to meet Walter, I’ve heard touching stories about how he helped develop junior scholars and made Asper a great place for all. I’m sending my condolences and respects, and I wish Walter peace in his rest. His legacy will be long remembered.
Hi Kelly,
I had the privilege of meeting Walter at the beginning of my career at Athabasca University. He was an incredible person and a mentor throughout the decade we worked together. Today, for some reason, he came to mind, and I found myself here. I feel a great sense of loss.
My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends who will miss him, his wisdom, and his wonderful sense of humour.
HI Kelly, Carolyn and family
I wish to express my belated condolences on the loss of your father, Walter Good who was a trusted friend and colleague over several decades with me as we both served as marketing professors and engaged in several international educational programs together over the years. I knew Walter in both my capacity as an academic at both the University of Regina and with Athabasca University and I will miss his engaging presence and friendship most deeply.