Goodwine Funeral Homes - Flat Rock

Lavene Maxwell, 93, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away on December 9, 2023, in the comfort of her home. Vibrant and spirited until the end, Lavene's many years on this earth were a testament to her enduring love, generosity, and selfless dedication to her family and community. Born on September 14, 1930, in Bond Township, rural Lawrence County, Lavene was the daughter of George & Bernice (Pinkstaff) Parker. As the girl who was expected to take on significant responsibilities, she developed a resilience and work ethic that became core aspects of her character. Her upbringing was unique, as she managed chores that taught her the values of dedication and excellence; whether plowing the garden...

Leonard Dale Sanders, 87, of Flat Rock, IL, passed away on April 25, 2022, at his home. He was born December 25, 1934, in Marshall, IL, the son of Nathan & Edna (Buckley) Sanders. He grew up in rural Flat Rock, where he attended school before transferring to Robinson High School. Following graduation in 1952, he found employment with the Ettelbrick Shoe Factory before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956. After basic training, he was sent to Germany and tasked to chauffeur a general who recognized that the impatient Leonard wasn't satisfied with waiting around and doing nothing. So, he was soon sent to learn how to work on radios, which he would do for his...

Elmer D. Hale, 76, of Flat Rock, IL, died October 1, 2021, surrounded by his family following a short battle with cancer. He was born July 8, 1945, in Lawrenceville, IL, the son of Ruby (Sissle) Hale. His early years were marked by hardship, and as a young boy, Elmer relied on the benevolence of his neighbors before finding a home with his foster parents, Tony & Mary Hill. A 1963 graduate of Lawrenceville High School, he was eventually drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He would go on to proudly serve his country as a radio telephone operator and infantryman in the 4th Infantry Division from 1967 to 1969. Over the course of his service, he saw heavy action and earned an...