Mike

Michael James Goodwin Sr.,  known affectionately as Mike by those who loved him, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Windham, PA, on May 15, 2024. Born in Troy, PA, on July 27, 1961, Mike's life was a testament to the values of family, hard work, and community.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Lois, and their loving children: Michael Jr. (Tara) of Fredericksburg, VA; Marc (Emily) of Waverly, NY; and Lorin (Cailyn) of Rome, PA. He was a proud grandfather to Cheyanne, Ellie, Keegan, Gavin, Alexia, Carter, Bentleigh, Timothy, Daveigh, Ryan, and Claysen. Mike was the cherished son of Marvin (Sue) Goodwin of Binghamton and Sandra Pedrick of Athens, PA. He will be fondly remembered by his siblings Martin (Jacki) Goodwin, Marvin Goodwin, Jr.; PJ (Jen) Goodwin, and Bonnie Lewis, as well as his sister-in-law Doreen Fulton and brother-in-law Charlie (Carrie) Fulton. His special uncle Allen Goodwin, along with many nieces, nephews, and their families, will hold his memory dear.

Throughout his life, Mike formed enduring friendships that were as much a part of his legacy as his family ties. Kritter and Kristofer Swagler, Carl and Val Nagel, Kevin and Pat Collins, Ed and Maureen Morales, Anne Andrews, Matt Stenger, and Howard and Carol Visscher, among others, will miss his warm presence. His faithful canine companion Lucy was a source of joy and comfort, never far from his side.

A graduate of Northeast Bradford High School's class of 1979, Mike studied auto mechanics at Vo-tech. These skills served him well both professionally and personally, as he was often found helping a neighbor, working on a car, or tending to his small farm. Mike's home was a place of open doors and hearty laughter, where friends became family and no one was a stranger for long.

Mike's passion for auto racing was a cornerstone of his life. He invested countless hours working on his son's car, and the thrill of the race was a shared excitement that brought the family together at Thunder Mountain, 5 Mile Point, and Hill Speedway. Racing was in his blood, a tradition passed down from his father and brothers. To the racing community, Mike was more than just a fellow enthusiast; he was a friend and a helping hand, always ready to support others in need at the racetracks around the southern tier.

Described by those who knew him best as thoughtful, handy, and friendly, Mike was the embodiment of the adage, "A friend in need is a friend indeed." His approach to life was captured in the words of Helen Keller: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." This quote exemplifies Mike's belief in the power of community and the strength found in unity.

Mike was predeceased by his mother-in-law Shirley Fulton; father-in-law Charles Fulton; brother-in-law Tommy Turner. He was also preceded in passing by his grandparents Eva Jones & George Edwards, and Eva and Bill Ham.

Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Saturday, May 18th from 11 – 2 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A funeral service and celebration of Mike’s life will follow at 2 pm with Pastor Larry Jennings, officiating. A luncheon and time of sharing will be held at the Windham Fire Hall from 3 - 6 pm following the services.  Mike will be laid to rest on Monday, May 20th at 11 am in the Jillson Cemetery.  Memories, photos and condolences may be shared by visiting his guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Gemini Farm Sanctuary, 926 Babcock Hill Rd., Rome, Pa 18837. www.geminifarmsancturary.org

As we bid farewell to Mike, we celebrate a life rich in love, laughter, and generosity. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, and his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. Mike's story is one of a life well-lived, and though he has left this world, his spirit remains, urging us on with the simple reminder, "It's just dirt in a circle," but for Mike, it was the circle of life that meant everything.