Raymond Arthur Noel

Raymond shared a devoted life with his beloved wife of 66 years, Shirley Noel. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories over many decades. He was a proud father to his three daughters, Linda, Sheri, and Diana, and a cherished grandfather to Noelle McLaughlin, Matthew Belling, and Aston Wahlberg. He was also blessed to become a great-grandfather to Maevery and Callan McLaughlin and Danny Ray Belling. Raymond is also survived by his sons-in-law, Mark Goena and Jeff Knauss.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Noel, and his sister, Patricia.

Raymond graduated from San Fernando High School in 1957, where he was an active member of the Future Farmers of America. He dedicated 33 years of service to the City of Glendale, earning the respect of coworkers and friends through his strong work ethic, expertise, and dependability. Even while working full-time, Raymond was never one to sit still, often taking on additional jobs to provide for his family and stay busy.

A man of remarkable skill and determination, Raymond was known as someone who could fix just about anything. His hardworking hands built, repaired, restored, and improved countless things throughout his life. He expanded and enhanced the family home and hand-dug the swimming pool in the backyard, a lasting symbol of his perseverance and dedication to his family.

Raymond found great joy in the outdoors. He loved camping, fishing, and hunting, and many family memories were made on the water as he piloted his boat, pulling countless people on water skis with patience and enthusiasm. He especially enjoyed traveling with Shirley, putting thousands of miles on several recreational vehicles while exploring the United States together. Later in life, they also enjoyed cruising with Royal Caribbean, creating even more treasured adventures.

He loved spending time tinkering in his garage, where every project seemed possible. One of his greatest passions was restoring his beloved 1949 Ford Sedan, affectionately known as “Chubbers.” As a gun enthusiast, he also enjoyed spending time in his reloading room and pursuing other hobbies with all “the boys,” that came into his life thanks to his three daughters. He found so much joy with these longtime family friends, sharing stories, laughter, camaraderie, and many fond memories.

Raymond was always the first to lend a helping hand. Whether it was repairing a car, tackling a home improvement project, or simply offering advice, family, friends, and neighbors knew they could count on him. His generosity, quiet strength, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He had a special appreciation for eagles, admired for their strength and freedom, and was rarely seen without one of his signature Hawaiian shirts, which reflected his casual personality and love of life.

Above all, Raymond will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, loyal friend, gifted craftsman, and a man whose hard work, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family created a legacy that will live on for generations.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who have the privilege of knowing and loving him.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 29th at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park and Mortuary 10621 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606 from 4:00-7:00pm.

A short graveside service will be held Thursday, July 30th from 11:30-12:00 with a celebration of life gathering at the family home from 2:00-6:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations in Ray's honor to Friends of Big Bear Valley (https://friendsofbigbearvalley.org/donate/) who organize, plan and raise funds, and collaborate with the US Forest Service and experts to design and install the Big Bear Bald Eagle nest camera which Ray was very passionate about.