Gene M. “Geno” “Mean Gene” Goodman, 86, of Aitkin, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025.

Geno was born on June 14, 1939, to Melvin Goodman and Erna Bielke in Pierz Village, Minnesota. He grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Minneapolis Roosevelt High School in 1958. Shortly after graduation, Geno proudly served in the United States Marine Corps until 1962.

In his own words, he was “an exceptional athlete and lifelong sports enthusiast”. Geno played softball from 1962 to 1994. He especially cherished his years coaching boys’ baseball in South Minneapolis through MFAC and Roosevelt Sr. Babe Ruth. Geno remained in touch with many of his former players throughout his life, a testament to the impact they had on one another. He took particular pride in the teams’ fundraising efforts that led to the installation of the outfield baseball fence at Bossen Field—still standing today, a lasting symbol of community and teamwork.

In 1990, Geno moved to Aitkin, where he embraced the slower pace, quiet and beauty of Northern Minnesota. He jokingly referred to himself as the “Mayor of Glen”. As the Unofficial Mayor he would make his way around town. First stopping to see Chris & April at the Glen Store and purchasing his beloved scratch offs or lottery tickets, then off to see his special friend Geri or a visit to Aicota to visit his beloved military comrade. Many days Geno would end up at Members Credit Union where he held a part time “Greeter” position, or so we joked!

Geno enjoyed working, fishing, hunting, golfing, and mentoring. His hobbies included: coin, knife and gun collections and research. He also had a love for feeding the birds! Geno held the Annual Harvey Borseth Golf Tournament at Fiddlestix Golf Course in Isle, MN. for approximately 12+ years. Truly a highlight for him and all those that participated. He would tease and say: My son, Troy and his partner Jay cheated to get the most wins in the history of the tournament. His odd way of saying he was proud.

Geno is survived by his children Brent Goodman, Troy (Annette) Goodman, and Holly (Lannie) Segebarth; and by his grandchildren Vaughn, Avery, and Davis. He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Erna and Don Stallman; his brothers Gary and Ron Goodman; and his special friend Geraldine Elliot.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Golden Horizons of Aitkin and the St. Croix Hospice team for their compassionate care.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 12:00 p.m., followed by a 1:00 p.m. Funeral Service and Luncheon at Our Lady of Peace Church, 5426 12th Ave South, Minneapolis, MN 55417