BIDDEFORD – Earl A. Goodwin, 79, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, surrounded by family who loved him deeply.

He was born in Biddeford on Dec. 10, 1942, the son of the late Theodore Allyn and Geneva Litwinowich Goodwin and was educated locally graduating from Biddeford High School, Class of 1961, and from Wentworth Institute, Boston, 1963.

On July 11, 1964 he married his high school sweetheart, Stasia Mackell, at St Mary’s Church, Biddeford. The following year with the birth of their son, Scott, their family was complete (with the exception of many dogs and cats). Stasia and Earl enjoyed 58 years of marriage.

Earl was employed in various capacities at WP Pepperell & Biddeford Textile before beginning a 25-year career as General Manager of the Biddeford Ice Arena. A job made in heaven for him as far as he was concerned…. And yes, he did get to drive the Zamboni!!!!

He absolutely loved being involved not only with the high school hockey teams but even with those just learning to skate and the many adults participating in the various men’s leagues and skating programs.

He was so appreciated by the BHS hockey team that they voted to give him his own Class A Championship ring for their back-to-back Class A Championships in 2007 and 2008. It was a tribute that he never forgot and always wore the ring proudly.

He also distinguished himself over the years in sports as a well-known and respected veteran football, basketball and softball official, serving also as president of the Portland Chapter of Football Officials and was presented the Crozier Award in 2014. This award recognizes selflessness and dedication to youth involved in football in the state.

Earl volunteered in many different capacities over the years for the city of Biddeford. Never hesitating to volunteer his services to work, sell raffle tickets etc. always eager to help any cause. Over the years he gave a great deal of his time to the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce, Biddeford Regional Center of Technology, Biddeford Parks & Recreation Commission, Southern ME Football Association and Basketball Officials Board.

He joined the Biddeford-Saco Rotary Club in 1971 – a beginning to a long-term commitment he never deviated from. He immediately involved himself into many projects, moving from one committee or project to another. Almost always in the forefront of some fund-raising events. After only five years he became President of the Rotary Club, then Treasurer for several years, while also serving on nearly every committee. Also serving as the District Governors Representative for District 7780 Area 4. Earl was the recipient of all known major club awards including Rotarian of the Year, Paul Harris Fellow and Service Above Self Award of Merit. His fund-raising accomplishments for the Rotary Club included the 3-minute shopping spree, annual fruit sales, the TV Auction, $100 Raffle Drawing, LaKermesse, and numerous others.

His commitment to the Rotary Club was endless. With that in mind the Rotary Club in 1991 created a new award in his honor – “The Rotarian of the Decade” and in later years also established the “Goodwin Outstanding Service Annual Award”.

In addition to his wife, Stasia, he is survived by his much-loved son, Scott and daughter-in-law Colleen of Glastonbury, Conn.; his brother Carl and wife Betty of Saco and his sister Jean and husband Bill Reicherter of Coral Springs, Fla.; his brothers-in-law and wives, Jim and Deloris Mackell of Arundeland Fran and Jan Mackell of Largo, Fla. Family support over the past several years meant a great deal to Earl and Stasia. In addition, he also leaves nephews and nieces that he deeply loved.

The family gives a special and very sincere thank you to his long-time friend and primary health care provider, Dr. Michael Festino of Saco. Without his help, knowledge, caring, thoughtfulness and guidance we would truly have been at a loss.

At his request there will be no services – his ashes will be scattered at a later date. In his memory, please give someone you love a hug today – you just never know what tomorrow will bring.

Arrangements are by Hope Memorial Chapel. To share condolences online, please visit http://www.HopeMemorial.com.

Because of Earls’ heartfelt beliefs in the Rotary Club’s mission to provide service to others, the family would like to ask that any contributions you wish to make in his memory be made to the:

Biddeford-Saco Rotary Charitable Fund

PO Box 298

Saco ME 04072

It broke his heart to see how many people needed assistance from their community

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