Greg Goodwin

Charles Gregory Goodwin, 48, passed away unexpectedly October 8, 2010 doing what he loved most—having an adventure in nature. Loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Greg was born September 17, 1962.

Survivors include his wife Lissa Wahlen Goodwin; his son Guy (9); and his daughter Ellie (6); father R. Charles Goodwin and wife Shirley Wozencraft Goodwin; mother Diane D. Goodwin; brother Jonathan Goodwin; sister Gay Goodwin Wickham and husband Matt Wickham; mother-in-law; many sisters and brothers-in-law; nieces and nephews; aunt and uncle; and cousins.

Greg attended St. John’s School first through twelfth grades, graduating in 1981 having made many lifelong friends. He attended The University of Texas at Austin and as a sophomore, he walked on and made the Longhorn football team as a 150-pound wide receiver under Fred Akers until a knee injury ended that adventure.

Greg loved the natural world more than most. He climbed mountains and dove in the sea. He paid attention to the plants and animals. One of his many passions was to pass along that love of the outdoors to his children and family—the loves of his precious life.

With his interest in the natural world, he had a vast interest in astronomy, stunt flying, scuba diving, and archeology. He loved playing horseshoes with his friends many of whom were Deke fraternity brothers. He always said his favorite place on Earth was the Cullen Ranch in south Texas where he hunted and fished. He was an avid sportsman and an expert on birds, snakes, and other reptiles. He enjoyed fly fishing, offshore fishing, rock climbing, ice climbing, collecting arrowheads, sailing, and hiking miles and miles through West Texas, including Marfa at a friend’s ranch and Mount Chinati.

He saved a man’s life in San Luis Pass. He had skills and knowledge that entertained many. He taught us about many wonders of the outdoor world. His sense of humor was understated and poignant. He especially enjoyed breaking into Monty Python skits with his kids, brother, and friends.

And one of Greg’s main expressions of himself was his music. He played the mandolin, the acoustic guitar, the bass, and keyboards. He was a songwriter. He was in bands; he adored jam sessions with his brother and friends at his family ranch. To pick up and strum his guitar comforted and inspired him.

The ultimate passion in Greg’s life was his dear children and wife. He was dedicated to enriching their lives with adventures, sports, competition, and love. Shine on, Greg.

Friends are invited to visit with family from 6 until 8 PM on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 in the Hunters Creek Chapel at Earthman Funeral Directors, 8303 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX, with a Vigil service to begin at 7 PM. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 11470 Joan of Arc Drive, Houston, TX. Graveside service and committal will immediately follow in Memorial Oaks Cemetery. Friends are encouraged to join the family for a reception from 12 PM until 2 PM at The Houston Racquet Club, 10709 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX.

Honoring the family by serving as pallbearers are Kelly Bolin, Stuart Kensinger, Perry Ruthven, Ethan Glass, Russ Burwell, Donald Corley, Randy Wheless, Bill Cheek, and Joey Bergner. Honorary pallbearers are Bob Kretschmer, Craig Dale, Hunter Carothers, Geoff Gilbert, Brian Briscoe, Monty Briscoe, Harry Cullen, Jay Steineker, Jack Daniel, and John Thompson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made for the benefit of the children to an account at The Burton State Bank, 515 Main Street, Burton, TX 77835-5919.