Former State Senator Barney Goltz of Bellingham passed away on Christmas Day. The news brought back memories for those of us with more salt than pepper in our hair.
First elected to the House in 1972, Sen. Goltz moved to the Senate in 1976 where he remained for three terms, ultimately serving as President Pro-Tem. He was a staunch advocate for higher education, having worked as Director of Student Activities at Western. He was known for his intellect, his wit, and his ability to disagree without being disagreeable.
The Bellingham Herald has a fine tribute to Sen. Goltz, including the numerous local and state politicians who consider him a mentor. In recent years, Sen. Goltz was a frequent visitor to Olympia where his son Jeff is a Deputy Attorney General and his granddaughters attended Olympia High School.
Barney Goltz was a public servant in the very best sense of the term. We offer our condolences to his family and friends.