Michael M. Goodpaster

Obituary

Michael Monroe Goodpaster was born on June 1, 1953, in Plymouth, Minnesota. He was the son of Chester and Virginia (Hayden) Goodpaster. Michael was baptized as an infant and was later confirmed in his faith as a youth. He received his education in the Plymouth/Wayzata area and was a graduate of the Wayzata High School Class of 1971. He furthered his education at Hutchinson Vocational School and also completed schooling to be a Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

In 1976, Michael was united in marriage to Ruth Steffenson in Minnesota. After their marriage, the couple resided in Montana shortly, then returned to Minnesota where their two children were born. In 1984, Michael was united in marriage to Jeanie Hecimovich in Eden Valley, Minnesota, where their two children were born. During his life Michael resided in Plymouth, Brownton, Washington, Montana, St. Cloud and for the last two years at his daughter’s home in Willow River, Minnesota.

Michael was a kind charitable man who devoted his life to those struggling with addiction. He was selfless in his drive and convictions of the Narcotics Anonymous program. During the last 20 years, Michael enjoyed his work for Catholic Charities as a maintenance man and drug and alcohol counselor before retiring in 2014. Since then, Michael spent his time being a great father, grandpa, sponsor and friend to all who knew him.

Michael was a house painter, but was also well known for his artistic paintings. He enjoyed whittling, woodworking and later loved his little doggie boys. Michael was adventurous, loved making things for his grandchildren. Michael was well known for supporting the underdogs of society, and listened without judgement while he gave them advice.

Michael passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home in Willow River, Minnesota, on Saturday, April 17, 2021, at the age of 67 years. Blessed be his memory.

Michael is survived by his:
Son, Benjamin Goodpaster and his children, Christopher and Annabelle Goodpaster;
Daughter, Angela Domagala and her husband, Steven, and their children, Elsie and Eva Burnett, Deanna, Angela and Tracy Domagala;
Son, Jonathan Batterberry and his children, Ronan Richard and Shanley Grace;
Son, Simon Batterberry Hecimovich;
Numerous Cousins, other relatives and friends.

Michael was preceded in death by his Parents, Chester and Virginia Goodpaster; Aunts, Uncles, Other relatives and friends.