Obituaries

Michael “Mike” Lee Goodman, age 79, died on January 1, 2025, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. He was born on February 11, 1945, in Dayton, Ohio, to Robert and Rena (Fagg) Goodman.

Michael was a true jack of all trades, a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, and a man of remarkable independence and resourcefulness. Born as an only child, he was raised by his devoted mother and spent his early years between Detroit, Michigan, and Kentucky, where he formed a deep appreciation for the natural world and the value of hard work.

Growing up in the Detroit area during the vibrant 1960’s, Michael developed a strong sense of independence that shaped his life. A self-made man, he followed his dreams wherever they led, eventually meeting and marrying Vickie, with whom he raised three children. Together, they moved to Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula (U.P.), to the small town of Pickford, a place he instantly fell in love with and called home for the rest of his life.

In the U.P., Mike thrived, raising animals, cultivating enormous gardens, and teaching his children the value of living off the land. Later in life, he met Beverly Meyers, a kindred spirit who shared his vision and love for animals. Together, they built a happy life with their combined family, including Beverly’s three grown children, and countless pets. They were well matched, sharing a love of nature and hard work, and remained deeply happy together until Beverly’s passing in 2008.

A road builder, logger, builder, mechanic, welder, gardener, and dreamer, Mike was an incredible thinker and problem solver. His talents were boundless, from making maple syrup to repairing just about anything, and he was happiest when immersed in his shop or exploring the woods. He cherished all four seasons, embracing the unique beauty and challenges each one brought.

Michael’s greatest legacy, however, is his three children. While none of them can wield a chainsaw with his precision, all three have inherited his resourcefulness and can stack a cord of firewood sturdy enough to withstand a U.P. blizzard - a skill that would no doubt make him proud.

Michael was a force to be reckoned with. He demanded respect, he would not be told what to do, and he had an unshakable sense of what was right and what was wrong. His presence was intense and unmistakable, and he brought focus and determination to everything he did, from solving problems to tackling projects. He formed meaningful bonds with those who shared his passions and ideas, leaving behind a legacy rooted in his values, his lessons, and the memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him.

Michael is survived by his son, James (Darya) Goodman; daughters, Tilitha (Brody) Waybrant, and Jessie (Stephanie) Polkowski; stepsons, Kevin Meyers, Kenny Meyers, and Kris Meyers; cousin, Jerald Goodman; fourteen grandchildren; and one great grandchild.

Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; and parents, Robert and Rena.

Donations or flowers to honor Mike can be sent to the nurses and residents at MyMichigan Medical Center Long Term Care, 500 Osborn Blvd, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

No services will be held at this time.

Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.