Howard Goodhue

In Loving Memory of
Howard Charles Goodhue
October 16, 1938 – April 8, 2026

Howard Charles Goodhue, 87, of Carlisle, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at UnityPoint Hospital in Des Moines, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on October 16, 1938, in Carlisle, Howard grew up with a deep appreciation for the land, the value of hard work, and the quiet joys of rural life. He began his education at Sandridge School, later graduating from Carlisle High School. With a natural interest in agriculture and a desire to deepen his knowledge, he earned a two year Agriculture degree from Iowa State University, an accomplishment he carried with pride throughout his life. Howard also answered the call to serve his country. He was a member of the 132nd Wing of the Iowa Air National Guard.

Farming was not just Howard’s occupation—it was his calling. He devoted his life to tending the soil, raising crops, and caring for the land that had shaped generations of his family. His days were marked by early mornings, steady hands, and a commitment to doing things the right way, even when no one was watching.

Howard was also a gifted woodworker, a craft that became both his creative outlet and his way of blessing others. Whether it was a carefully carved piece of furniture, a toy for a grandchild, or a project made simply because it brought him joy, his work carried the unmistakable mark of patience, skill, and love.

Beyond his work, Howard cherished time spent with the people he loved. Some of his happiest moments were the simplest ones—walking on the sandbar with family and friends, soaking in the laughter that always seemed to follow him there. He was well known for his famous apple pie. Baking those pies and donating them to others became one of his quiet ministries of kindness. And whether gathered around a kitchen table or a card table, Howard loved a good game of pitch, where the competition was friendly, the stories plentiful, and the company was what mattered most.

Howard’s dedication extended far beyond his home and farm. He believed deeply in serving his community and giving back to the place that had given him so much. He served on the Board of Directors for the Hartford and Carlisle Savings Bank, offering steady leadership and a farmer’s practical wisdom. For many years, he was a committed member of the Planning and Zoning Board for the City of Carlisle, helping guide the growth and future of the town he loved.

Faith was a cornerstone of Howard’s life. A lifelong member of the Carlisle United Methodist Church, he held numerous leadership roles throughout the years. Whether serving on committees, supporting church projects, or lending a hand wherever it was needed, Howard lived out his faith through service, humility, and a quiet but unwavering devotion to his church family.

Howard married Marilyn Kay (Kruse) Goodhue on May 21, 1976, and together they shared nearly 50 years of partnership. Their marriage was built on devotion, humor, resilience, and a deep affection that carried them through life’s joys and sorrows. Marilyn was his constant companion, his trusted partner, and the heart of the home they built together.

Howard’s life was touched by loss, and he carried those memories with quiet strength. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia Louise (Keeney) Goodhue, with whom he shared five children before her passing in April 1973; his parents, Marion Glen and Winifred Bertha (Owens) Goodhue; his brother, David Elmer Goodhue; his son, Charles Edward Goodhue; and his infant daughter, Nicole Kay Goodhue. Though grief shaped parts of his journey, it never hardened him. Instead, it deepened his compassion and strengthened his appreciation for the family he cherished.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; his children Sherry (Hans) Cooper, Laura (Rob) Belzer, Julie (Steve) Reed, Jenny (John) Tucker, Casey (Stephany) Goodhue, Eric (Stacy) Goodhue, and Corey (Rachel) Goodhue; and by his 17 grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. Nothing delighted him more than watching his family grow, gathering around a table, or seeing his grandchildren discover the world.
To those who knew him, Howard will be remembered for his quiet steadiness, his gentle humor, and the way he lived out his values without needing recognition. He taught by example—through the way he worked, the way he loved, the way he served, and the way he showed up for the people who mattered to him. His legacy is woven into the lives of his children and grandchildren, into the fields he tended, into the community he helped shape, and into the countless wooden creations that will continue to be held, used, and treasured.

Howard’s life was simple in the best and truest sense: rooted in faith, family, community, and the satisfaction of a day’s work done well. He leaves behind a legacy of love, craftsmanship, service, and integrity that will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him.

Memorials for Howard may be directed to the Carlisle United Methodist Church.