HOLLIS – Goodwin Hannaford died on Saturday, April 10, 2021, after fighting years of declining health with his signature determination. Born on June 14, 1944, to Olive Wiley Hannaford and R. Floyd Hannaford, Goodwin was proud of his ancestry which included poet Robert Frost, explorer Robert Peary, and his grandfather, Arthur Goodwin “Doc” Wiley who established the Buxton Hollis Community Hospital in Bar Mills in 1924.

Goodwin attended grade school in Buxton and graduated from Gorham State Teachers College in 1966. In high school, he helped found “The 97’s” hot rod club and was proud to still have his 97’s jacket and plaque. He remained friendly throughout his lifetime with many of his grammar school friends.

Goodwin’s interest in motors and horsepower began at the age of 5 while fixing his mother’s washing machine. Working at Warren Stuart’s farm and garage as a little boy, he learned about farming, automotive science, and becoming self-sufficient during those formative years. Later, he gained experience working with his father (a plumber) and as a machinist making rims for forklift tires. After meeting Roger Littlefield, he built his first winning race motor at the age of 14 for a car owned by both Roger and Sandy Atkinson (driven by Sandy). Too young for admittance into the pits, he watched from the 1-turn stands and discovered what would become a lifelong passion.

At the age of 20, Goodwin bought the property that would become his home until his death. Determined and independent, he bought and sold 17 cars to earn the money to purchase the house on his own, requiring no co-signature from his parents. He took great pride in the land and restoration of the house, careful to maintain the integrity of the original 1763 building.

Those who knew Goodwin observed that he was a natural teacher, both in and outside the classroom. He taught Industrial Arts for over 20 years, 17 at Cape Elizabeth High School. The state recognized his courses for credit toward graduation given their integration of practical physics as it related to automotive and industrial studies. His curriculum included metal work, casting, foundry, machine work, metal fabrication, machine drawing/blueprinting, and elements of design, but also integrity, responsibility, and life lessons. He exemplified a strong work ethic, sound safety practices, and respect for others. Many of his students went on to much success. He served as mentor and remained close to several throughout his lifetime.

While teaching, Goodwin ran his own high-performance automotive business, often arriving home from school and beginning the second half of his workday in the shop. His pursuit of excellence and creative thinking were formidable. He quickly became known for his expertise in Corvette and hot rod restoration and high-performance engines. He was recognized by Chevrolet as one of the top five mechanical fuel injection experts in the country.

As a young adult, his participation in racing was limited to occasionally drag racing his cars “Ratso” and “Teacher’s Pet”, and building motors for others. He was sought for his singular ability to generate horsepower at all levels of circle track racing around New England. In 1990, upon purchasing a used modified race car, he took on the racing world as an owner, a role he relished until his last day. He and his wife, Anne, campaigned their modified 71ME for years at Claremont Speedway in New Hampshire. Their car and hauler were both very old yet well-prepared (the modified featuring an orange frame and cage with 71ME on the black body of the car). Great drivers were their trademark. Teaming up with Josh Cantara, a young, local driver, became the highlight of their racing career. Goodwin instilled his love for racing in his son, Arthur, who worked alongside him for years, both in the shop and eventually as a member of the Hannaford Racing Engines, 71ME modified race team. Arthur went on to run his own race car, honoring his father by numbering his car 71ME, and painting it black with an orange cage.

Goodwin was a true innovator in building engines. He was revered in the racing community and remains respected all over the Northeast. Among his many formal honors were his induction into the Beech Ridge Motor Speedway Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Maine Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2010. Goodwin was also honored as one of 25 racing legends voted upon by the Maine racing community.

Goodwin valued giving back to and leading within his community. He was a member of the Hollis Planning Board for 11 years, chair for eight. He was Chief of the South Hollis Fire Department, a member of the Board of Directors of Maine Vintage Race Car Association, and a member of the Board of Directors of the Maine State Stock Car Racing Association. Goodwin and Anne are founding members of the Valenti Modified Racing Series.

Goodwin loved his children dearly and did not hesitate to say it. He enjoyed teaching, laughing, and spending time with them as they grew up. He unfailingly attended their athletic, musical, and academic events, proudly cheering them on, often loudest. He modeled leadership, resourcefulness, self-sufficiency, and the importance of serving one’s community.

He is survived by the love of his life, Anne Acquarone (Beyer) Hannaford, whom he married on Oct. 18, 1997, on the lawn of their home with many close friends in attendance. He is also survived by their beloved and devoted rescue dog, Boo.

Goodwin is also survived by his son, Arthur G. Hannaford, and two daughters Amy Hannaford, and Christine Hannaford Wynne (and their mother, Maurine Hannaford) along with her husband John Wynne. He leaves two granddaughters, Madeline Wynne and Ella Hannaford.

He is also survived by his wife Anne’s children, Alison Beyer Willis, John Beyer and his wife, Mindy Beyer; and two grandsons, Clayton Archer Willis and Kyler Albert Beyer.

A private service will take place at Tory Hill Congregational Church on Saturday, April 24, followed by a brief graveside service at South Buxton Cemetery, adjacent to the church. A small reception will be held immediately following in the church hall. The family will host a Celebration of Life (“Goodwin’s Day, Goodwin’s Way”) at their home in Hollis in June of this year. Details will follow. Dennett Craig and Pate Funeral Home, Buxton are in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to:Bear Hill ChurchPreservation GroupP.O. Box 126Hollis Center, ME 04042.