For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, May 4, 2005

WASHINGTON D.C - Legislation written by Congressman Dan Boren (D-Muskogee) to designate the Vinita Postal Building as the Francis C. Goodpaster Post Office passed the House of Representatives today.  Goodpaster, a former State Representative and World War II veteran, will be honored by having the Vinita Postal Building permanently bear his name. 

 

“Representative Goodpaster was a devoted public servant who served the people of his state and community with distinction,” said Boren.  “I am pleased to have an opportunity to honor his service through this legislation,” Boren added. 

 

Francis C. Goodpaster was born in 1909 in Vinita, Oklahoma, where he lived until his death in 2001. He attended Oklahoma A&M University and, after graduation, was elected to the Oklahoma Legislature as a state representative. He became an employee of the Postal Service in 1937, and was promoted to postmaster in 1964, a position which he retained until his retirement in 1973.

 

Goodpaster entered the armed forces during World War II and was overseas most of the war, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  He was also active in the American Legion, serving as past commander, and was a service officer for over 20 years.  He served two terms in the Oklahoma Silver Hair Legislature and served on the Red Cross Board for many years.  He was a lifetime resident of Vinita where he lived with his late wife Mildred H. Williams, a school teacher. 

 

Boren’s legislation will be sent to the United States Senate where it is expected to pass some time later this year. 

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