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Community remembers Korean POW that passed away this holiday season

Posted at 3:32 PM, Dec 31, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-31 16:32:38-05

WACO, TX — One of 33 surviving Korean prisoners of war has passed away.

Jack Perry Goodwin, founder of North Waco Tropical Fish, died peacefully at his home at the age of 89.

Goodwin was one of the first American soldiers to enter the Korean war as part of Task Force Smith.

He spent 38 months in captivity after being taken prisoner on July 5, 1950.

After returning home, Goodwin married "the love of his life," started a family and opened North Waco Tropical Fish in 1964.

His wife, Violet, suffered a severe stroke, and Goodwin devoted decades of his life to taking care of her.

Goodwin remained involved with his former unit and was the historian for the Task Force Smith survivors group, helping countless families obtain information about their loved ones.

Goodwin's visitation will be held on Jan. 2 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home from 5-6:30 p.m.