Willis L. “Bill” Noble, 101, passed away February 24, 2020, in the same peaceful way he lived his life. Born September 29, 1918 in Estherville, Iowa to Ward and Albertine (Dalen) Noble, he moved to Graettinger where he loved to skate on frozen ponds with his four siblings. He was attending Bethel College on a tennis scholarship when the Army called. Bill played trumpet in the Field Artillery Band at the Army Rest Center, Foro D’Italia – Rome. While playing for USO dances at Fort Sill, he met a pretty girl named Wanda. Their romance sparked in the midst of big band music. Their marriage in 1944 played on for an amazing 76 years.
Bill earned a BA in Accounting from University of Oklahoma and was a tax accountant for Sohio Petroleum until he retired in 1984. He revered nature and geography. His time spent in the dramatic scenery of Alaska during construction of the pipeline made a lifelong impression.
Wide landscapes and open water were subjects for Bill’s paintings. He led the family on adventures throughout the West and with Wanda hosted many summers on Lake Eufaula. He will always be our Captain.
Faithful to God, his family and his community, he was a good neighbor and citizen. Bill was an accomplished craftsman, expert Bridge player, bird watcher and avid collector of hidden treasures. A longtime member of Village United Methodist Church, he sang beautiful tenor in the Chancel Choir.
Bill is survived by his wife Wanda, daughter Connie Noble, son Jeff Noble, family friend Jim Truss, fifteen nieces and nephews, outstanding neighbors and many friends. A true and gentle renaissance man, he is forever in our hearts.
Public viewing at Hahn- Cook/ Street & Draper, Thursday, Feb 27, 8:00am to 8:00pm. Service at Village United Methodist Church at 11am Friday, Feb 28 followed by burial at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Village United Methodist Church.
