Max Goodhart

Max passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Born on November 28, 1938, in Marshalltown, Iowa, Max lived a full life marked by hard work and devotion to family.

Max began his career in the automotive industry at just 18 years old after graduating high school in Toledo, Iowa. His early years were spent working in the car business, eventually rising to the position of Parts Manager. In 1978, he moved to Colorado Springs, CO where he continued his career with Phil Long Ford as a Parts Manager and Lincoln Mercury. Even after retiring from his managerial duties, Max remained active and working as a courtesy driver for Toyota for several years. His strong work ethic and love for the automotive world kept him involved until he fully retired at the remarkable age of 86.

Max’s life was deeply rooted in family. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Faye Leonard; daughters Susan Melton (Stephen) and Laura Sokol (Todd); son Tim Goodhart (Linda Decker); sister Janet Kucera and brother Terry Goodhart (Teri).

He was a proud grandfather to Joshua Melton

and Logan Carlson-Goodhart, and a cherished great-grandfather to Max, Mya and Evelyn Melton.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Agnes Goodhart, his granddaughter Jessica Melton Chalupsky and step-daughter Michele Leonard.

Outside of work and family life, Max found joy in simple pleasures that reflected his calm demeanor and gentle spirit. A true enthusiast of classic cars, he loved attending car shows where he proudly displayed his collection. Sports were another lifelong passion–especially the Iowa Hawkeyes and he enjoyed following the games. Max had a love of trains and also enjoyed tending to his yard, playing poker with the guys and spending time with loved ones.