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Kenny Bernstein remembers Robert Goodwin

Robert Goodwin 1940-2000

Robert Goodwin, owner of Brooks Rods, lost his three-year long battle with colon and liver cancer at 4 a.m. Dec. 15 at his home in Anaheim, Calif.

Goodwin, who was raised in Arkansas, moved to California in the early 1960s and began working at Mickey Thompson's. He left Mickey Thompson's and went to work at Venolia in l968. In 1971, Goodwin, along with Bob Brooks and other partners, started Brooks Racing Components (BRC). Goodwin purchased the rod division in 1982, establishing Brooks Rods.

Goodwin was a beloved member of the racing fraternity and hundreds of friends flew from all over the country to help celebrate his 60th birthday in April in California.

On Nov. 8, Goodwin married his love, Debbie, in a double ceremony with Kenny Bernstein and Sheryl Johnson in a civil court in Santa Ana, Calif.

Goodwin, accompanied by Debbie, spent the 2000 season attending as many races as he could, despite his weakening condition. His solace and strength in his final months came from his friends in the racing fraternity and he would hold court in each pit he visited. With his big smile, cheerful personality and keen memory, he was a great entertainer. Many racers remember one of Goodwin's strong suits as his ability to write, and he penned many memorable 'Anvil Award' speeches.

Goodwin's ashes will be scattered at sea off the shore of Laguna Beach, Calif. A celebration of life for Goodwin is pending.

Goodwin is survived by his wife, Debbie; daughters Stephanie Rooks and Robyn Goodwin Shannon O'Sullivan, and son J.R. Valesquez; brothers Bill, Curtis, Henry and sisters Alene and Mary; grandchildren Tara Rooks, Tyler Justice and Cailin O'Sullivan.

The family requests that donations be made to:

The American Cancer Society
In Memory of Robert Goodwin
Alton Deere Plaza
1940 E. Deere Ave., Suite 100
Santa Ana, CA. 92705

When making donations, please specify that acknowledgement be sent to Debbie Goodwin, 4348 E. Terra Vista, Anaheim Hills, CA. 92807. Cards and letters of comfort may be sent to Debbie at the aforementioned address.