Martin Dean Goodnight

Martin Dean Goodnight was born on September 19, 1956 in Sasebo, Japan, to Murrel Goodnight & Yachiyo (Kaye) Nakashima-Goodnight. As the child of a seaman, they moved from place to place while he was a small child.

They moved to the States when he was almost 10 years old. He grew up in North Sacramento and graduated from Norte Del Rio High School in the class of 1974.

He enlisted in the United States Navy in June of 1974 and was a crewman on the U.S.S. Butte. He was honorably discharged in 1978 and is a Vietnam War-era. His enlistment was the start of many adventures, a thirst for travel and pride in being a veteran.

Martin was always larger than life, with a presence like a gravitational pull. He was charismatic and could tell a story like no other. He had a way of making people feel safe and protected along with a big, generous heart. He also had the ability to make friends wherever he went.

Some of the many titles he carried in life were: Father, Husband, Papa, Mentor, Coach & Teacher.

Over the years he coached several sports, teams and individuals. He had an endless love of helping people learn, excel and be their best.

Martin loved sports. But his passion was for bowling. He was a member of several leagues, went to every tournament he could, and would have lived in a bowling alley if he could've.

He is survived by his wife & travel companion of almost 10 years, Cindy. His children & stepchildren: Joshua, Jennifer (son in-law, Joe), Brandon (daughter in-law, Vanessa), Ryan (daughter in-law, Natsuno), Delaney (son in-law, Christopher), Audrey (partner, Daryl). His grandchildren: Ricci, Jorge, Logan, Felicity & Tierney (husband, Bryan). He is also survived by his brother, Cecil Goodnight (sister in-law, Mary), sister, Lily Williams, brother in-law, Bill (sister in-law, Mary), and several nieces & nephews.

He is preceeded in death by his mother, father and grandson, Benjamin.

While it feels as if he is gone too soon, Martin lived a life full of good times and even better memories. He will be remembered by us all with love and definitely some laughter.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations are made to:

Dale K. Graham Veteran Services

1233 W Lindsey St, Norman, OK 73069