March 17, 1927 - July 12, 2019
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Donald John Noble of Rimbey, Alberta. Donald passed away quietly at the Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre on Friday, July 12, 2019 at the age of 92 years. Born on March 17, 1927 at Acme, Alberta, Donald was the first son born to Wes and Maria Noble. In April, 1934, the family moved from Acme to a quarter of land east of Rimbey.
Donald started his schooling at the Delf School in Acme, and finished his education at the Wooddale School near Rimbey. Donald bought the family farm in 1945, and in February of 1952 he was united in marriage to his sweetheart, Evelyn Starozik. This union was blessed with four children: Wayne in 1956, Jim in 1961, Ken in 1963, and Karen in 1965. For many years, Donald was active in the area doing custom brushing and breaking with his brother, Hardy.
In the late 1940s he started Don Noble Trucking; hauling lumber, posts, grain, machinery, gravel, and drill mud to well sites, as well as livestock to several auction markets throughout Central Alberta. In 1981, he was even recognized by CFCW radio station as the 'trucker of the day'! In the late 1940s and 1950s, Donald also did some sawmilling in the winter months, and in the early '80s he even obtained a working sawmill and would happily cut wood for his friends and neighbours. In 1989 Donald's son, Jim moved back to Rimbey to farm alongside his dad, and that continued right to the day of his passing.
Cattle had also been a large part of Donald's life for over 60 years; and in 2007, at the age of 80 years, the decision was made to sell the cattle and continue with a grain and forage operation. Donald could be seen quite often raking hay, hauling bales, or harrowing mole hills. Whether it was fishing and hunting with family, or just being outside on the quad enjoying what the farm had to offer, Donald took great pleasure in being outdoors. He absolutely loved when family and friends stopped by for a visit, and his story-telling and shared experiences of the past were always memorable. Donald's love of life will be deeply missed.
Donald leaves to mourn his passing his loving family, his sons: Wayne (Karen), Jim (Donna), and Ken (Cheryl); and his daughter, Karen (Keith) Kreil; as well as 14 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. He will also be lovingly remembered by two brothers: Bill (Sadie), and Johnny (Sharon); and three sisters: Joy (Lloyd) Sheils, Jessie (Robert) Gates, and Rosie Smithson (Delbert); in addition to many nieces and nephews, additional relatives, and a host of special friends. Donald was predeceased by his parents, Wes and Maria; his beloved wife, Evelyn; his daughter-in-law, Laurel; his granddaughter, Jenny; his great granddaughter, Rowen; one brother, Hardy; one sister, Evangeline; and several other cherished family members.
In heartfelt appreciation, the family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff at the Rimbey Hospital for every kindness they extended to Donald, and the wonderful care they provided to him during his stay.
With respect for Donald's wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Donald's Memory may be made directly to the Rimbey Health Services Donations Program, c/o Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre ~ Long Term Care, Box 440, Rimbey, Alberta T0C 2J0 (www.rimbeyhealthdonations.com). Condolence messages may be forwarded to the family by visiting: www.ofc-ltd.ca
Cremation Arrangements for the Late Donald John Noble entrusted to the care of Oberhammer Funeral Chapels Ltd.
Oberhammer Funeral Chapels Ltd.