Video by Pam Stevenson, Agave Productions Inc., for Historical League
Robert Goldwater was born in Phoenix on July 4, 1910. His family had already made a significant mark on the progress of the state. With his brother, Barry, and sister, Carolyn, he grew and matured with the city.
Mr. Goldwater was president of the student body at Phoenix Union High School and excelled in many activities and sports. He attended the University of Illinois, ultimately graduating from Stanford University in 1931. After graduating, he began work in the family Goldwater store and at Valley National Bank. Mr. Goldwater showed great farsightedness in the management and development of the Goldwater stores, which went hand in hand with his contributions to the growth and development of the city of Phoenix.
During World War II, Robert Goldwater served with the Civil Air Patrol, rising to its command by the war’s end. After the war, he and several others developed Arizona Airways, which was later acquired by Frontier Airlines.
Known for his love of athletics, particularly golf, Robert Goldwater is also known as the Father of the Phoenix Open. He served as the “Big Chief” of the Phoenix Thunderbirds, and was a founder of Moon Valley Country Club. He is a member of the Thunderbird Hall of Fame, the Sportswriters’ Hall of Fame, and the Arizona Golf Association Hall of Fame.
Mr. Goldwater has also served as director of the Valley National Bank since 1933, and as president or a board member of many other business and civic associations. In a quiet manner, Robert Goldwater has had a major influence on virtually every aspect of the growth of Phoenix.
Historymaker Robert Goldwater biography published in 1992
Historymakers is a registered trademark of Historical League, Inc.