For more than 50 years, the "Goddard Place" was the home of Bill and Janice Goddard. After their marriage in 1949, they settled together on the homestead north of Morland to begin a life of farming and cattle ranching. They built a house by Young's Creek and filled it with four children; Rick, Ron, Rebecca and Sonya. They were loved by their children, adored by their grandchildren and respected by all who knew them.
Bill was no stranger to the feel of a rope in his hand or a good horse beneath him. In addition to being a lifelong farmer and rancher, he also served as a 4-H leader for most of his adult life, and especially enjoyed the horse program. Bill had a love for kids and horses, and never missed the chance to teach anyone -- young or old-- how to ride. He had a special way of taking kids under his wing and treating them like his own. He led by example, and believed strongly in the value of a hard day's work and the satisfaction of a good laugh.
Our History
Janice worked hard to maintain a beautiful yard, and a bountiful garden, and often prepared three wonderful meals a day in addition to running a tractor, driving a truck, and working cattle. Her warm smile, welcoming spirit, and extraordinary sense of humor made everyone who entered her home feel like her best friend, and made them want to stay. She could always be counted on to provide a warm smile and piece of advice -- or a piece of pie!
Their lives were marked with a dedication not only to church, marriage and family, but also to the community at large. Long after their own children were grown, they continued to offer leadership and assistance to youth throughout the county and took great pleasure in watching the many accomplishments of these young people.
Over the years, Bill and Janice's home was a place of refuge for many...a place where no one entered unwelcomed or left hungry, where lessons were taught, love was shared, and everyone was treated like a member of the family. Their incredible legacy continues every day in the connections being made with young people through the programs offered at Goddard Place.
Board of Directors
Rebecca Ellis, President, Penokee, KS
Jason Goddard, Vice President, Lake Placid, FL
Sonya Cap, Secretary, Penokee, KS
Josh Ellis, Derby, KS
Ashley Suggs, Decatur, TX
Tadd Ellis, Lawrence, KS
Dr. Myles Tieszen, Omaha, NE
Thomas Atkins, Hill City, KS
Sandra Veh, Hill City, KS
