Wendell passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 6, 2020 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Wendell was always smiling and will be missed by his large family and friends. Everywhere he went, he was sure to find an old friend or quick to meet someone new who would become a lifelong friend.
Wendell was born on November 22, 1934 in Brookings, South Dakota to Lester and Emma Goodroad who preceded him in death, as well as his six siblings. His daughter, Wendy Jo Goodroad also preceded his death. He is survived by his children, Randy Sorenson, Wendell Goodroad Jr., Daniel Goodroad, Marilyn O’Meara, and Michael Goodroad, as well as his stepdaughters, Brooke Hisle and Kendra Folker. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Emily, Misty, Brian, Michael, Mark, Dylan, Tawney, Danny, Wendell, Levi, Aubrey, Collins and great grandchildren Hailey, Zachary, Kinsley, and Jackson as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He joined Army-Air Force at 15 years old; serving in the Korean War and overseas tours to France and Japan. During his service, he earned several awards: Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, United Nations Service Medal (Korea), and the Korean War Service Medal.
After his military service, he moved to Arizona where he founded his own pest control company. He then returned to a life of service with the Federal government while working at the Post Office and the Bureau of Land Management from where he retired. In retirement, he volunteered at Del Web Hospital, Spring Training Baseball, and at his beloved Radiant Church.
Wendell loved anything relating to science fiction, astronomy, and history. He was always learning through reading books and attending community college. Driving around the West Valley with him was legendary as he would point out his old stomping grounds, share stories of his past and always ended up at Golden Corral. At his home in Surprise, he believed he could never have too many roses in his yard, even in the Arizona heat. The only thing he loved more than his roses was his family. Any story involving his 16 grandchildren would bring the biggest smile to his face.
His smile, fun-loving spirit, and generosity will be missed by his family and friends.
Services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2020 at 9:00 at Resthaven Park Cemetery at 6450 West Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a local charity of your choice in Wendell’s honor.
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