Goodwin “Butch” Heil, 79, passed away on March 15th, 2026. He was born on June 3rd, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois. He spent most of his life calling parts of Illinois and Kentucky home, but finally settled in Stonewall, Louisiana.
Those who knew him best rarely called him Goodwin, family and friends simply called him Butch. A man who would always have a good (or ‘bad’) story to tell. Stories, that always connected to your own. He loved to ride his Harley, so much so that he road clear across the United States by himself in one trip at 72! He would spend months planning road trips, to see the sights and connect with friends along the way.
Butch devoted much of his life to work and service, taking pride in building his skills, demanding the best of himself and everyone he encountered. As a Facility Manager, he mentored many people throughout the years. He hungered for knowledge, always seeking to learn something new. Knowledge he shared with others to solve issues. He devoted several years serving as President of Northern Illinois ABATE, a motorcycle rights organization he cared deeply about. He formed lifelong friendships with members of this community.
Outside of work, Butch was a craftsman. He designed and oversaw building his ‘home on a hill’ in Upton, Kentucky carving out a ten-acre farmstead, boasting cows, gardens, and a beautiful woodshop. With his wife of 28 years, Lauren, Butch ventured countless miles (though he did actually keep count) exploring backroads and God’s creation on their Harleys. He enjoyed woodworking, leatherworking, and constantly practiced damn paracord knots. He had a special place in his heart for dogs, especially shelter dogs, and over the years many found their way into his home and heart.
More than anything, Butch valued the people around him. He is survived by his wife, Lauren; his brother, Michael Heil; his step sons, Douglas Jankowski (Hannah) and Edward Jankowski (Stephanie); his son, David Heil (Susan); and his daughter, Carolyn “Sis” Kish. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Grey Jankowski, Jack Jankowski, Liza Jankowski, Liam Jankowski, Scarlet Jankowski, Quinn Jankowski, Brian, and Johnny Kish.
He was preceded in death by his father, Goodwin Heil Sr., his mother, Rosemary Clark Heil, and his brothers, Larry Heil and Terry Heil.
The family extends sincere gratitude to Pastor Randy and Mary Buckles, Clay Bairnsfather, the neighborhood friends on Julie Lane in Stonewall, Butch's barber Becky Bufkin of Shreveport, and Todd McGuffin of Kentucky for their kindness, support, and presence during this difficult time.
Butch will be remembered for his steady determination, his craftsmanship, his love of the open road, and the loyalty he showed to those he loved both two-legged and four-legged.
Visitation will be held at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, 8801 Mansfield Road, Shreveport, LA 71108, on March 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life will follow directly after at 11:00 am. Officiating pastor is Walter Burnett.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the PHACE Syndrome Community (www.phacesyndromecommunity.org) to honor his grandson, Grey Jankowski. PHACE Syndrome Community, PO Box 300, Willow Grove, PA 19090
