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Honoring the Gode Family: A Legacy of Giving Where You Live

The Kirkland Community Foundation honors the generosity and leadership of Dick and Nancy Gode and their family, whose support has made the new picnic shelter at O.O. Denny Park a reality.

Rooted in Kirkland

The Gode family first settled on the shores of Lake Washington in 1965.  It was here in Kirkland that they raised their children — Scott, Jennifer, Rod, and Geoff. Nancy gave her time and leadership to the Lake Washington School Board, shaping education for generations of local students. Dick served as a doctor, caring for the health of countless patients, and shared his joy of life through barbershop quartet singing.

A Lifelong Commitment to Community and Conservation

Later, the family moved to the Methow Valley, where their dedication to conservation grew even deeper. Nancy served as an early board member of the Methow Conservancy.  Together she and Dick received the Ken White Award for their lifelong commitment to protecting open space, creating conservation easements, and preserving land and rivers for future generations.

Giving Back Where It All Began

Now back in Kirkland, the Godes continue their legacy of service and generosity. Their gift to support the new O.O. Denny Park picnic shelter is a tangible way to give back to the community that has shaped their lives — and will ensure others can enjoy the same beauty and connection for years to come.

We are also honored that Nancy Gode now serves as one of the newest members of the Kirkland Community Foundation Board.

A Community Partnership

The following section includes excerpts from a City of Kirkland announcement.

The City of Kirkland announced the opening of a new picnic shelter at O.O. Denny Park — a project made possible through a generous donation from Dick and Nancy Gode, remaining funds from the former Finn Hill Park and Recreation District, and support from the Kirkland Community Foundation. Together, these contributions highlight the community’s enduring commitment to improving public spaces and strengthening neighborhood connections.

“To the Gode family, the Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance, Community Foundation, and all who contributed to this project, thank you for helping us build a place that reflects what Kirkland does best: creating spaces where people can come together, rain or shine,” said Mayor Kelli Curtis.

Located in the heart of O.O. Denny Park, the new shelter complements the existing structure by providing more covered space for picnics, celebrations, and community gatherings. The facility is now available for public use and can be reserved through the City’s picnic shelter system.

“Picnic shelters bring people together, and this addition to O.O. Denny Park creates more opportunities for connection in one of the most scenic settings in Kirkland,” said Parks and Community Services Director Lynn Zwaagstra. “It’s a wonderful example of how philanthropy and community support enhance quality of life.”

From the Plaque

“Our family settled on this beautiful shore in 1965. May you also discover the serenity of this tranquil site.”

– Dick & Nancy Gode and Scott, Jennifer, Rod, and Geoff

Words to Live By

Their story is a living example of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s timeless wisdom:

“To leave the world a bit better… to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived — this is to have succeeded.”

Through their leadership, philanthropy, and care, the Gode family has left Kirkland — and the Methow Valley — better than they found them. The Kirkland Community Foundation is deeply grateful for their generosity and proud to honor their legacy.

Portions of this article were adapted from a City of Kirkland Parks and Community Services Department news release.

Leave a Legacy in Kirkland

If you and your family would like to leave a legacy here in Kirkland, we invite you to contact us at the Kirkland Community Foundation to learn how your gift can make a lasting difference.

Gode Family pictured here with members of the Kirkland Community Foundation leadership.

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