MOUND, MN - It is a sorrowful day as another industry leader is gone too soon. Don Goodwin, Founder and former Owner of GoldenSun Insights, passed away on Sunday, April 18, at the age of 58 after battling multiple myeloma since November 2013.

In his wake, Goodwin leaves behind an extensive produce industry career spanning four decades and weaving its way through every aspect of the supply chain from procurement to wholesale to marketing.

Goodwin started his impressive career as a graduate of Western Michigan University’s Food Distribution program. Throughout his 40 years in the industry, he held many other roles, including Chief Operating Officer at Green Giant Fresh and leader of Target’s product division with the rollout of Super Target in 1998. Goodwin then founded GoldenSun Insights in 2004.

With an expertise in licensing, Goodwin also helped found Imagination Farms, a fresh produce distribution company focused on increasing children's consumption of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, he negotiated a partnership with Disney Consumer Product’s food, health, and beauty division to include fresh produce under the Disney Garden brand.

Goodwin also served as a member of the Advisory Board for Titan Farms. Throughout his time in the produce industry, he was awarded many accolades and honored as an influential leader.

He was known by those who worked with him from his strategic planning skills, having successfully planned processes for many companies across the supply chain. Goodwin is also remembered for his charisma, quick wit, and compassion by all who knew him.

Randy Riley, Co-Owner of GoldenSun Insights, reflected on Goodwin’s impact on the industry and those who came in contact with him.

“As an advisor to us, the company, and our clients, Don will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Don was a brilliant man; he was kind and compassionate,” said Riley.

Jason Fuller, Co-Owner of GoldenSun Insights, also commented on Goodwin’s legacy.

“He was an example of a hard-working businessman, husband, and father. He was a sounding board for all of us, and we will miss him dearly,” explained Fuller.

Always a devoted husband and father, Goodwin leaves behind his wife Roxanne and daughter Isabella.

A funeral service for close family and friends will be held this Friday, April 23, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mound, Minnesota, and a celebration of life will be held later in July. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Multiple Myeloma Foundation.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones as they deal with the loss of this remarkable leader.