Obituaries

Max Willard Goodwin entered into rest October 18, 2023, at the age of 88. Born in Stilwell Oklahoma March 25, 1935, Max was a resident of Newark for 60 years. He is preceded in death by his parents Chester A. Goodwin and Delphia Iona Goodwin, his brothers, Lloyd, Bill, Watie, Chester (Junior), James (Pop), sisters Freda and Nina, daughter Celia and granddaughter Faith. He is survived by his wife Sally, daughters Sherry and Lisa, brother Leon, 6 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Max grew up in Oklahoma. After high school he enlisted in the Armed Forces. While in the National Guard he met his beloved wife of 67 years, Sally Sue Thompson. They married in Wichita Kansas in 1956. Over the next 4 years they had 3 daughters Sherry Lynn, Celia Kay and Lisa Maxine

In 1962 Max and family moved to Hayward. In 1968 he received his California State Contractors License, he built and remodeled all over the bay area from 1968-1995. He owned and operated “ABCO Heating and Air” for 14 years. After retirement from ABCO, Max ventured into the restaurant business with his best friend Bill Sinadino. Sinodino’s restaurant, formally called “Becks Family Steakhouse” where both families laughed, joked, and shared stories every Friday night for 30 years. Max and Bill enjoyed six memorable years working together at Sinodino’s.Their longstanding tradition of Tuesday gatherings first began in 1991 with a select group of dear friends, at “Dino’s Family Restaurant.” Max attended his last meeting on October 17th, the day before his passing.

Max loved OU football, Western movies, Country and Gospel music, planting flowers and “Round up”. He loved Oklahoma and was proud to be called an “Okie” Max never forgot his roots. Max’s daughter Lisa would often say “Dad thinks he’s the reason God made Oklahoma”.

Max always had strong work ethic and strong determination, when he set out to accomplish something, no challenge was too big. Max was always willing and wanting to help his friends and family anyway that he could. He always said, “I’m just thankful I can” Helping just seemed to be his calling. He looked for ways to help the needy and befriend the friendless. He organized fundraisers, volunteered, supported schools, and churches. He always gave generously with a good heart.

Max was the patriarch of his family, the glue and often times the final word but always with unconditional love for his wife Sally, his girls, and each and every Grandchild. They were his joy.