Elke Christa Anni Heidi Goodin (Pechmann), 69 of Higginsville, Missouri passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at her home in Higginsville. She was born Tuesday, December 27, 1955 in Leonberg, Germany to Joachim Pechmann and Ingeborg (Fousor) Pechmann.
Elke moved to the United States in the early 1980’s from Germany, initially settling in Washington state before relocating to Higginsville in 1987. She was a hard worker and would do what it took to make ends meet. She dedicated many years of her life working at Wally’s Nut House, Walmart, and as a caregiver in nursing facilities.
She was proud of her German heritage but also just as proud to be in the United States. In Germany she had her high school diploma, was a licensed nurse, and working in the nursing field by age 16. When the working industry in the US wouldn’t recognize any of her German licenses or high school diploma, she had no problem getting her GED to gain American employment.
Elke was a woman of many talents; she found joy in crafts such as diamond art, latch hooking, and macramé. Music was a cherished part of her life as well. She enjoyed all genres of music. In 1996, she met Ralph Miller and together they shared a beautiful life until his passing on March 20, 2024.
Though she and Ralph loved to travel, Elke was also a true homebody at heart. She found comfort in the simple pleasures of life, often sipping coffee and appreciating the little moments. An avid walker, she preferred exploring her surroundings on foot rather than by car. She walked to work every single day – rain, snow or shine.
Elke will be deeply missed by all who loved her, as she leaves behind cherished memories and an enduring legacy of family and resilience. Surviving are one son, Christopher Goodin (Kimberly Stoup) of Higginsville; four daughters, Gabriele (Scott) Teem of Missouri, Daniela (Christopher) Dwinells of Higginsville, Christina (Darin) Quick of Odessa, MO, Mindy Terrell (Dave Aycock) of Lexington, MO; twelve grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and family from Germany. She was preceded in death by her parents; her soulmate, Ralph; and one brother, Hans Pechmann.
A visitation will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, located at 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri 64037. Burial will follow the visitation in the Higginsville City Cemetery, where Elke and Ralph will be laid to rest together. Memorials may be made to the Lafayette County Cancer Coalition. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com
Source: KMZU, The Farm
