Fortified with the Sacraments, Walter Joseph Goodyear, 87, died peacefully on Friday, April 24, 2026. Born in St. Louis, Missouri he was the devoted husband of late Kathleen Goodyear, (nee Hutchinson) for 62 years and loving father to Karen (Greg) Krekeler, Jim Goodyear, and Steve (Becky) Goodyear. He was preceded in death by infant sons, Michael and Brian. Beloved PawPaw to grandchildren Katharine (Luke) Odom, Gregory Krekeler, and Cal, Lane, Hope, Paige, CJ, Brooke, and Audrey Goodyear, and great-grandchildren Connor and Caroline Odom. Dear brother of Fred (Betty) Goodyear and brother-in-law to Janet Hutchinson and Rita (Mike) Schmidt. Loving uncle and friend to many.
As a graduate of St. Mary’s Catholic High School, he was a track star with a sprint record that lasted for decades. His love of sports continued as a coach for CYC sports, bowling leagues, and table shuffleboard enthusiast in his later years. Wally had a 38-year warehouse management career at Anheuser Busch and enjoyed part-time roles at Grants Farm, Busch Stadium, and the St. Louis Arch in retirement. He was known for his pranks and jokes that made it fun for his co-workers, friends, and family.
Services: Funeral at Seven Holy Founders Church on Friday, May 8. Visitation at 9 a.m., Mass at 10 a.m., followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery and lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
St. Mary’s High School: https://www.stmaryshs.com/support-smssc/tribute-gifts
Walter was such a joy to know! I loved his pranks, especially his Billy Bob teeth😍! Mark and I were blessed to know Walter and Kathy, They were a wonderful example of family, faith and stewardship! The world was a better place because of them two! They will be forever loved and missed.
Our deepest condolences to all of your family!
Walter “Rubbers” Goodyear,
“Waldo” was not just one of my bosses at AB, but also my friend! He was fun to work with and work for. We had many phone conversations, even the last few weeks of his life. He always said I was his favorite clerk. He relied on me to make decisions that he would be responsible for. If he made a decision against my advice and it turned out bad, he would always say, ” I should have listened to you.” We sometimes met after work or other times for a burger just to talk and he would always buy. He always had such a great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed! I know he is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
From his friend,
Gary Geldmeier
Wally was one of the first guys I met when I started work at the brewery and our friendship has lasted ever since. He was a very “unique” individual and had a very funny sense of humor. He was a devoted family man and was always talking about his kids. He will be one that is truly missed. Wally, thanks for the memories!!
Worked with Wally for many years. Always a pleasure to be around. Wally was a professional prankster and always good for a laugh. He will be missed. I’ll see you when I get there buddy!
First meet Wally when I was bowling with him 40 years ago. Also worked with him at Grant Farm for a few years. He did like to play jokes on everyone. He was always smiling and giggling.
We were neighbors on Wickershire and he was a great friend! During a time when things were upside down in my life and I wasn’t sure what to do, Wally spoke to me with wisdom and helped me through a super dark time! I know that God brought him into my life thru His providence and I’m grateful to have known Wally Goodyear!
thank you for being a great brother “waldo”
Love, your brother Fred