Melvin Goodner

Danville; Melvin Dean Goodner, 88 of Danville began his everlasting life at 1:35 pm on Monday, May 14, 2012 at the VA Illiana Health Care System. Melvin recently affirmed his belief in the Lord. Melvin was born August 24, 1923 in Danville, the son of Kenneth and Hazel Swisher Goodner. He married Bette Jean Wood on January 2, 1943. She preceded him in death after 61 years of marriage and raising four daughters, Pam (Dennis) Starkey, Paula Lucas, Julie Barney and Sue Stahl (John Bukowski) and two sons, Mark (Kathy) Goodner and Bill (Joanne) Goodner. Grandchildren include Mike (Kari) Jameson, Rob (Gayle) Starkey, Jody (Cathy) Starkey, Jennifer (Dave) Schnell, Tim Barney(Michelle Haas) Brian Barney (Jackie Pitlik), Jessica (Shane) Hogan, Adam Zorns (Traca Shahan) Matt (Brittany) Goodner, Mike (Angela) Goodner, Nicki (Matt) Lenton, Katie Goodner and Jessica (Jeromie) Nazzise. Melvin is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren, two beloved sisters-in-law, Mary Morrow and Jo Ann Goodner; and one brother in law, Harry Shepherd; and numerous nieces and nephews who all claim to have been his favorite! Besides his wife Bette, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene and Jack Goodner and twin sisters, Marie Goodner and Mary Shepherd Melvin proudly served his country during WWII in the US Army and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal. He worked as a Linotype operator at Recording and Statistical until retiring in 1981. During his long and rich life, Melvin's greatest satisfaction was serving as the family patriarch. An amazing man, he was strong as the mighty oak in his front yard. He always kept his family in the center of his heart and was happiest when spending time with them and his dear friends. His children treasured going on annual family vacations to Panama City Beach, Florida. A man of honesty and integrity, he was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed and frequently remembered. A celebration of the life of Melvin Goodner will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, May 18th, 2012 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville. Officiating services will be Pastor Jim Russell. Visitation will be from 4-7 pm Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Johnson Cemetery, with full military rites performed by the American Legion Post #210 of Danville. Please join Melvin's family in sharing memories, photos, and video of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.