MSgt Robert D Goodwin USAF (ret) aged 86 years, "Slipped the surly bonds of earth.." Monday 2 September, 2019.

Robert was born at Mary Alley Hospital in Marblehead Ma. June 28, 1933.  He was the eldest son of Frank C Goodwin and wife Barbara.  An industrious young lad, Robert could be found delivering papers, hauling lobster traps, and delivering groceries for his father from the Goodwin's store on Washington St.  He then spent time on the stern of lobster boats, making some pocket money.  When he finally reached the legal age to serve his country in November 1951 he enlisted in the United States Air Force.  He was trained to be a "Maintainer" on the Air Force's new jet powered fighters.  During his off time he became a sharpshooter for the US Air Force Rifle Team.

In 1955 he met a young lady from Salem, Margaret Spellman, and the two fell in love and married in 1956. He continued to serve until 1973, including service in Korea, Thailand, Greenland and Vietnam. Upon retirement Robert got a job at Butler Aviation at Boston Logan Airport and the family settled back into the home they had purchased in Salem in 1963.  As soon as he was able, he purchased a boat and got back on the waters he enjoyed so much as a child.  Most weekends in the summer were spent with hooks in the water.  When he wasn't working on the boat, or fishing, he could most likely be found tending his large vegetable garden.

As Robert got older, maintenance on the boats became too much and he preferred to go fishing when he could on "Head" boats or Charters.  He  continued, without fail, every year to plant his garden.  He also enjoyed spending time at Danvers Fish and Game Club and hunting in Cherryfield Maine, and was a fan of bluegrass music.

His loving wife Margaret passed March 3 2019.

Robert is survived by his children: Bob, Mary Ann, Joanne, Barbara, Patty, Beth and Ben. Also survived by siblings Truman, David, Janice and Frank, and proceeded in death by brother John and sister Patricia.

In addition he is survived 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held Monday, September 9 from 10-11 AM at the Murphy Funeral Home, located at 85 Federal Street, Salem. A funeral service will immediately follow the visiting hours, and will also be held at the Murphy Funeral Home. Interment will be held at Waterside Cemetery, 294 W Shore Drive, Marblehead following the funeral service. For more information or online guestbook please visit www.murphyfuneralhome.com or call 978-744-0497.