Larry Kenneth Goodwin

April 6, 1943 – October 12, 2025

Larry Kenneth Goodwin, age 82, of San Diego, California, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Brewer, Maine during the final years of World War II, Larry’s early life was shaped by his father's military service and public dedication. He spent his formative years in Bucksport, Maine and later in Washington, D.C., where his father worked in public service. Summers were often spent in the cool, peaceful beauty of Maine—a tradition Larry carried forward throughout his life. The family eventually returned to Maine each year to a beloved cabin, or "camp," on Lake Lucerne, a place that brought him enduring peace and joy. He loved spending time with the kids at camp not only teaching them to fish, swim and canoe, but also to be a good citizen and show respect and compassion to others.

Larry’s life was marked by service, intellect, and deep family connections. He attended high school in Tehran, Iran while his father worked with the U.S. Agency for International Development, attending a Presbyterian mission school where he formed lifelong friendships. His global upbringing instilled in him a sense of curiosity and compassion that would carry through his personal and professional life.

He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Rhode Island, where he joined Army ROTC and later served as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He trained at paratrooper school in Georgia, endured Cold Weather school in Colorado, and was eventually stationed at Fort Carson. After his military service, Larry pursued graduate studies at the University of Connecticut—a strategic and heartfelt choice that placed him close to both his roots in Maine and the vibrant city life of Boston, where he nurtured his lifelong devotion to the Red Sox.

Larry went on to enjoy a distinguished career in public service. He answered a call to leadership and joined the federal government as a Management Intern, eventually rising to become the Director of Human Resources at the U.S. Department of Labor. Over his 20+ years in that role, he received numerous awards and accolades, but more importantly, he was known as a thoughtful, ethical, and compassionate leader who deeply valued the people with whom he worked.

In 1984, Larry married his beloved wife, Rosemarie, and together they built a life filled with travel, friendship, music, and community. Upon retirement, they moved to San Diego where Larry embraced life fully playing golf, traveling widely, walking, dancing, and enjoying the arts. A dapper dresser with a full head of hair, a radiant smile and a kind soul, he brought warmth and light into every room he entered.

Larry loved many things—Red Sox baseball, long walks, live music, ocean cruises, reading, dancing, and above all, his family. He cherished watching children play, always drawn to their wonder and joy. A former marathon runner, his vitality was matched by a deep well of kindness.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Rosemarie; his children Laura Winkler (John) of Virginia and Gregory Goodwin (Moira McKernan) of Colorado; his brother Alan Goodwin (Eleanor) of Maryland; and his sister Judith Miller (Jack) of Virginia. He was a proud grandfather to Donovan, and a caring father figure to his nephew, John Caraluzzi (Kimberly Gerry) of Colorado, and John’s children, Ellah, Josephine, and Giovanni. His presence in their lives brought stability, wisdom, and deep affection.

Larry will be laid to rest with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery, a reflection of his service to his country and the enduring respect he earned throughout his life.

His legacy is one of quiet leadership, integrity, love, and joy in the simple pleasures of life. He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.