William E. Goodwin, 80, of North Manchester, Indiana, passed away on December 31, 2024, at Peabody Memorial Home.
William, affectionately known to friends and family as Bill, was born on June 7, 1944, in Peru, Indiana, to Oliver and Anita (Jeanette) Goodwin. He was a proud graduate of Peru High School, class of 1962, before continuing his education at Notre Dame University and later transferring to Indiana University. There, he earned a degree in Physics, graduating with honors in Sigma Pi Sigma, and later pursued a Master’s in Business Administration.
Bill married the love of his life, Judith, in 1966 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served as a pilot aboard the USS Forrestal with the Be-Devilers squadron, completing a tour in the Mediterranean and later serving as a flight instructor. After his service, BIll worked at Cummins in Columbus before relocating his family to Peru to manage the family farm. He lovingly referred to farming as “an expensive hobby” and continued his passion for it until his retirement.
Bill’s love for music was a defining part of his life. Whether playing melodies on the piano, tenor saxophone, or flute, he brought joy to those around him with his musical talent. Bill was also an avid aviation enthusiast, finding great happiness flying his Piper Archer, often taking trips with Judith to locations around the country. Additionally, he was a dedicated ham radio operator, holding the call sign K9LZC.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Judith; dearest brothers and friends, Samuel and Oliver; daughters Elizabeth (Jan), Ann (Matthew), Mary (David), and Sarah (Ramy); and his cherished grandchildren, Henry, Helen, Pieter, Sami, and Hani. He is preceded in death by his parents and two siblings, John Joseph and Mary Ann.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at Saint Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. 5th Street, Peru. Family and friends are invited to visit on Monday, January 6, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash. Burial will be in Saint Charles Catholic Cemetery following mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Sisters of Providence, Red Cloud Indian School, or Helping Hands of Miami County.
The memorial guest book for Bill may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
