Obituary of Marvin Lee Goodell

Marvin Lee Goodell, the son of Charles and Edith (Bush) Goodell, was born prematurely on December 8, 1946. Complications from his early arrival left him with cerebral palsy. He was lovingly cared for by his family until 1984 when he moved to Woodward State Hospital School for evaluation and placement while Edith received knee surgery. In 1988, Marv moved to New Hope Village in Carroll, IA where he lived until present. While at New Hope, Marv had many opportunities and accomplishments, including receiving a "light talker" that allowed him the ability to communicate, receiving an electric wheel chair that allowed him the freedom to move independently, control his TV and music and the ability to open or close doors. Marv was employed at a bank in Carroll for several years where he supervised document shredding. Recently, Marv had a role in the fund raising events for New Hope's "Called to Care" capital campaign to renovate and upgrade resident housing; he was very proud to be able to make a difference. Marv had a love for social interaction, music, movies and great appreciation for any beautiful and caring ladies in his presence. He loved good jokes and hearing stories from his caregivers of their families and home life. Marv was included in many New Hope staff holidays and celebrations and was so appreciative to all of the staff for the friendship, care and opportunities he received. Marv died Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at St. Anthony Hospital in Carroll, IA after a battle with pneumonia and infections. He was preceded in death by his parents, a stillborn baby sister and his brother Merlin Goodell. Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Marline and her husband, Bruce Johnson of Milford, IA; their children Travis and Juli Johnson (Addison) of Milford, IA, Brooke and Eric Taylor of Durham, NC, and Will Johnson of Milford, IA; staff and residents at New Hope Village in Carroll, IA; other relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be given in Marv's honor to support the "Called to Care" capital campaign, sent to the Development Department, attention Jodie Jansen, at New Hope Village 1211 E. 18th Street, PO Box 887, Carroll, IA 51401.