James Wayne Goodban

James Wayne Goodban, 73, of North East passed away on Saturday June 28, 2025 at UPMC Hamot, surrounded by family.

He was born on January 21, 1952 in Erie, Pennsylvania to the late William Wayne and Patricia (Mangus) Goodban.

James graduated from Harbor Creek High School in 1970. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1972, and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.

James was an entrepreneur, he owned and operated Goodban Towing & Repair in North East since 1983, along with his brother, Dan.

James was a member of the North East American Legion Post 104.

He loved spending time with his family and friends. He was always there for everyone with open arms without any judgement. He was always willing to coach his son's youth sports teams. He loved supporting the North East athletes, whether by cheering them on or being a member of the Sports Booster, organizing lunches for the sports teams during preseason camps. James enjoyed learning about history, his ancestry, and traveling. His knowledge was very diverse, and he loved sharing it with. He enjoyed meeting people from all over the world and having conversations with them. 

James was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Evelyn Watkins; and brother, Daryl Goodban.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years Christina (Fisher) Goodban, whom he married October 7, 1972; sons, James Goodban (Kristen), Robbie Goodban (Jennifer), and Trever Goodban (Monique); sisters, Colleen Hushon and Heidi McDonald (Bill); brother, Daniel Goodban (Mary Jo); grandchildren, Shelby, Kaylee, Gavin, James, Heaven, JD, and Rachelle; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family may call at the William D. Elkin Funeral Home, 65 South Lake Street, North East on Sunday July 6th from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. and are invited to attend a funeral service on Monday July 7th at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment with Full Military Honors will be held at North East Cemetery. Please send condolences to elkinfh.com.

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