Barry George Goodhart

Barry George Goodhart, 84, of Robesonia, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Barry was at home surrounded by his loving family, as a beautiful snowstorm blanketed the area. He was the devoted husband of the late Diane Louise (Auchenbach) Goodhart, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. Born at home, in Stonersville, PA, he was the son of the late Clarence George "Doc" and Evelyn Grace (Orr) Goodhart and the grandson of the former Berks County sheriff and auctioneer Victor L. Goodhart. Barry was a proud graduate of Exeter High School, class of 1958, where he earned the distinction of being voted "Most Athletic" by his peers. His dedication to his country led him to serve in the United States Army, after which he pursued higher education, attending the Reading Business Institute and later earning a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Albright College.

Barry's career began as a manager at the now-closed WT Grant's Department Store, where he worked across several locations, including his longest tenure at the Courtland, NY branch. However, his partnership with his wife marked a turning point in his life. Diane, a talented artist, was given the opportunity to bring her dream home to life when her father, Paul A. Auchenbach, gifted the couple a small plot of land. Together, Barry and Diane built a beautiful home by hand, creating a lasting legacy of love and craftsmanship. Upon completing their home, Barry began a sales career at Hersey Meter Company, which later merged with another company to form Mueller Systems. Barry transitioned to Exeter Supply, where he worked twenty-three fulfilling years in sales before retiring at the age of seventy-five.

From a young age, Barry was always on the move, embracing the outdoors in every way possible. Whether it was golfing, cycling, basketball, canoeing, skiing, camping, or hiking, he found joy in all activities that allowed him to connect with nature. A lifelong competitive runner, Barry cherished the memories of his many years in the sport. He was a dedicated and active member of the Pagoda Pacers Running and Cycling Club, where he not only competed but also generously volunteered his time and energy. Barry played a role in organizing races and rides, assisting with a variety of behind-the-scenes tasks, and ensuring the race-day needs of the athletic community were met with care and efficiency. In 1995, Barry launched a new running race for the Pagoda Pacers in Oley, PA, taking on the role of director for the Oley Valley Country Classic 10-Mile Road Race. He approached this responsibility with unwavering dedication and enthusiasm. The event's overwhelming success led to the addition of a 5K race in 1998, further enriching the race's tradition. This race celebrated its 30th anniversary in November, a testament to Barry's lasting impact on the running community.

One of Barry's most cherished accomplishments was his lifelong involvement with the Skyline Drive Corvette Club, which he co-founded with a close-knit group of car enthusiasts in Reading, PA. As the last surviving member of the original founders, he held a special place in the club's heart, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this year. What began as a group of friends bonded by their love for the iconic American sports car and thrilling road adventures evolved into something far more meaningful. Over the years, the club became a community where friendships flourished and families connected, united by shared experiences at car shows, parades, picnics, parties and charitable efforts to support those in need. Barry was unanimously chosen to the distinguished position of Emeritus Board Member by the car club members, making him the first and only member to receive this distinguished honor. He will be sadly missed by the many members of this amazing car club. Barry was also a member of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the Solid Axle Corvette Club, the national organization devoted to the first-generation Corvettes.

Barry was a lifetime member of the Stonersville Fire Company, a member of the Schwarzwald U.C.C.,in Jacksonwald, and for 34 years was a chairman on the North Heidelberg Zoning board until his passing.

Barry's loving spirit is carried on by his family: Christine Diane Goodhart; Tara Lynn (Goodhart), spouse of Steve R. Moyer of Womelsdorf Pa; Tember Leigh (Goodhart), spouse of Mike Hamm of Carson CO; Regan Bea (Goodhart) and late spouse Chad M. Jandrew of Newmanstown Pa and his two grandchildren Lyle and Xelia Jandrew. Additionally, he is survived by brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Preceding him in peace was his only sibling, Shirley Mae (Goodhart) Joffred.

While we lost our most beloved father, many have lost a dear friend and companion. He has been a rock to many, a master at sarcastic humor and witty timing and even a glorious pain in the neck to many who knew him. Throughout his life, Barry was known for his unwavering dedication to his children, family and his deep love for the life he built with Diane. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025 beginning at 11:00 am at Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. After the ceremony, family and friends will come together for a procession of Corvettes. Leading the way will be Barry's cherished 1960 silver Corvette, as we take him and Diane on one final journey through the countryside. Along the route, we'll pass by some of the places that held special meaning to Barry. This heartfelt road trip will conclude at the Stonersville Fire Company, located just next door to the very place where Barry was born 84 years ago. We invite you to join us in celebrating Barry's "Last Ride".

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Skyline Drive Corvette Club Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 14231, Reading, PA 19612. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences and to sign the virtual prayer book, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com.