Virgil Albert Goodman

Virgil Albert Goodman was born at the family home outside of Millersburg, Iowa on February 23, 1943. He attended school there as well and lived on the farm all his life.

Virgil found joy in the simple rhythms of farm life and often said it was “time to go see his girls” when heading out to milk the cows. After retiring from farming, he worked at Lake Iowa, where he made lifelong friends and enjoyed the camaraderie of his coworkers.

Virgil loved his coffee, ice cream, and hard candy — a fondness for hard candy he shared with his mother, Essie. In his younger years, Virgil was an avid hunter and even persuaded Betty to go on a hunting trip for their honeymoon. Over the years, Betty patiently cooked whatever he brought in, from frog legs and squirrel to deer, though she drew the line at a raccoon and turtle.

He was a devoted member of St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in North English. His faith was a steady presence throughout his life and a source of strength for both him and Betty during the ups and downs they faced over more than 60 years of marriage.

A firm believer in the value of a “15-minute special,” Virgil enjoyed a brief daily nap to recharge. His family affectionately teased that he was a “harvester ant,” as he was always gathering fruit and berries. Before Betty retired, she often came home from work to find him busy with the day’s harvest, waiting for her help to finish preserving it. On one occasion, she discovered him attempting to boil pears in hopes of making them easier to peel.

Virgil enjoyed mowing the yard on his riding lawn mower and was notorious for running over anything in his path. Virgil and Betty were beekeepers and also took pleasure in leisurely drives in their restored 1955 Chevy Bel Air.

One of his favorite pastimes was taking drives with Betty “around the acres,” watching for wildlife, checking the crops, and admiring the trees. He had a deep appreciation for the land — especially the trees — and was always reluctant to cut them down. A true homebody, Virgil preferred sitting on the deck watching sunsets and wildlife to traveling, finding contentment in the place he loved most.

After a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work, Virgil Albert Goodman, passed away on January 2, 2026, and returned home to God, reuniting in spirit with those who went before him.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Marie Goodman, whom he married on September 25, 1965. He was preceded in death by his sons, James, Steven, and Philip; his parents, Andy and Essie Goodman; and his sister, Maxine Driscoll.

He leaves behind his daughters, Dianna Goodman (Anthony Smead) and Barbara Goodman-Mills (Gary Mills); his son, Christopher Goodman (Kathryn Kaul-Goodman); his brother, Larry Goodman; his sister, Shirley Shafar (Bob); five grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

A funeral mass will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, January 9, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in North English. Burial will follow in the Armah Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, from 11:00 am -12:30 pm at the church. Memorials may be given to the English Valley History Center. Powell Funeral Home in North English is caring for Virgil and his family. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.