Michael Lee Goen

Michael Lee "Cubby" Goen June 20, 1957 – February 9, 2026 Michael Lee Goen, known to everyone as “Cubby,” hung up his tool belt for the final time on February 9, 2026. Born on June 20, 1957, to the late Harold “Bear” and Kathleen (Kemp) Goen. Cubby was a man who truly understood how the world was put together. An expert craftsman with an eye for detail, he didn’t just live in the world; he built it. From framing houses from the ground up to the precision work of building his own car, computer, and even his own firearms. There wasn't a manual Cubby couldn't master (or a "fix" he couldn't improve upon). He enjoyed working with family & friends on projects large & small. He spent 18 years keeping things running in maintenance at Helsel/MPP, but his true passion was to "tinker." Whether he was flying down a track as a former race car driver, trail riding in his side-by-side with his wife, or obsessing over PT Hobby cars and gadgets, Cubby never met a mechanical challenge—or an expensive piece of equipment—he didn’t love. He passed away doing exactly what he loved: mid-project, crafting a set of custom cabinets for his home. His greatest "builds," however, weren't made of wood or steel. He leaves behind a sprawling, sturdy family tree. 

Cubby is survived by his wife of 30 years, Loretta; his brothers, Eugene (Joy) and Roger (Jean Ann); and a legacy of children: Brandy (Chris) Terrell, Michael (Britni) Goen, Chrystal (Mike) Boisvert, Carrie (Wesley) Stephenson, and Chris Davidson (Robin Ellnor). He was the proudest "Grandfather" to 10 grandchildren: Kirsten, Kathleen, Christian, Taylor, Camren, Jake, Hagen, Owen, Emmett, and Simon; and a Great-Grandfather to five: Coy, Chesney, Aleesi, Edie, and Romee. In his final months, Cubby didn't slow down. He spent his days working alongside his son, Mike, and volunteering his expert skills for the Orange County Habitat for Humanity 35th volunteer build. He got the unique joy of working on that project with his granddaughter, Kathleen— passing down the wisdom, the grit, and the "measure twice, cut once" philosophy that defined his life. We are profoundly grateful for the years we had with him. He taught us that if something is broken, you fix it; if it doesn't exist, you build it; and if it's expensive, it's probably worth having. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Orange County Habitat for Humanity. Mail to 1075 N. Sandy Hook Rd. Ste 4. Paoli, IN. 47454 or click link:

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QCLGAHE52MM5Y&source=qr

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 14 at 2:00P.M. Visitation will be held from 11:00A.M until the time of the service, at Turning Point Christian Church, 1406 E. Hackberry St., Salem, IN 47167.