Search by Name
Menu
Search by Name
Howard E. "Ed" GoodSmith
Howard Edward GoodSmith, 81, Neenah, passed away peacefully Friday, June 7, 2013, at Cherry Meadows, Appleton. Ed was born February 1, 1932, in Kenilworth, IL, son of Dr. Howard M. and Dorothy (Willoughby) GoodSmith. Kenilworth was his home, along with his summer home on Lake Delavan, for many years. Ed married his high school sweetheart in 1953. They had five children together: Dorothy Anne (James) Stiles, Waukegan, IL; Kenneth Scott (Jennifer) GoodSmith, Oak Park, IL; Katherine Lynn (Thomas) Meilenner, Appleton; Laura Wyman (Dennis) Robertson, Neenah; and Mary Elizabeth (Gregg) Cary, Highland Park, IL. In 1973 Ed married his best friend, Karen Sue Klose "Kay", and she preceded him in death October 5, 2011. Ed's first career was as a surgical instrument salesman for V Mueller Company. After 25 years, Ed decided to retire at age 50, and he and Kay purchased the Twin City Motel, Neenah. They loved their life of meeting new people and kept all as friends. He left the inn keeping life in 2002 to help Kay with her art fairs, and to enjoy dinners at their favorite places. Ed was passionate about travel, and with Kay by his side, they traveled the world. Ed also cherished his time on their beloved boat, The Martini II. Ed was very active in the Neenah Lions, serving all offices. He also served on the Neenah Planning Commission for many years, leaving just recently when his health no longer permitted his involvement.
In addition to his children, Ed is survived by 13 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, his brother-in-law, James (Deborah) Klose, nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2013, at the First United Methodist Church, 108 W. Doty Avenue, Neenah, with Pastor Mark Geisthardt officiating. Visitation will be at the Kessler Funeral Home, 304 S. Commercial Street, Neenah, Sunday, June 9, 2013, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., and again at the church from 10:00 a.m. Monday until the time of the service.
Ed's family would like to thank Dr. Jack Swanson and his staff, the staff at Cherry Meadows, and all who brought joy to his life. He loved the song "My Way", and felt blessed to do just that!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
I was saddened to hear of Ed's passing. He and Kay had such a wonderful zest and love of life. They loved it, lived it and both remained strong for each other. They never lost their sense of humor. I knew Ed through Kay, one of my long-time childhood friends. My condolances and prayers to his family and friends.
I know they will miss him.
Judy Geyer
June 25, 2013
Thanks to Cindy, I'm aware of Ed's passing. Funny thing, I just thought of him the other day--maybe the 10th or just after. He made my friend Kay so happy, so complete and he walked with her every step of the way. Now they are
again together. May they rest that way in loving peace.
My sympathies to his children and grandchildren who became Kay's and through her my contacts. You have wonderful models to cherish. Judy Mich
Judith Mich
June 25, 2013
Ed was a real gentleman and I'm sure his family will miss him very much. His best friend, Kay was also one of my very best friends. We met in kindergarten and our families remained the best of friends throughout life. Ed made her so happy and while living in the midwest, we had many fun times on their famous boat. Several of Kay's artworks hang in our Florida home. If you can get a message to Jim Klose, please say hello for me. Warm regards,
Cindy (Jackson) Johnson, 133 Vintage Bay Drive #9, Marco Island, Fl 34145
Cindy Johnson
June 25, 2013
Will miss your smile!
Michelle Schramm
June 11, 2013
Enjoyed his stories. Kay painted our
family farm picture. Both were cheerful
and delightful to visit with.
My sympathy to all the family.
Jean Braun
June 9, 2013
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Funeral services provided by:
Kessler Funeral Home - Neenah304 S. Commercial Street, Neenah, WI 54956
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more