William Hugh Noel passed on to his next chapter on Sept. 12, 2023. Born to parents Leland and Barbara Noel on July 18, 1950, in Santa Rosa, California, he was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend to many.
After graduating from Santa Rosa High School, Bill traveled widely and had many grand adventures. He received degrees from California State Polytechnic University. Bill then returned to Sonoma County, where he spent most of his life.
Bill’s first career included working with local nurseries and building departments in Sonoma County. He then devoted himself to artistic pursuits, developing a deep passion and mastery of pastels and wood sculpture.
Bill and his wife of 28 years, Carey, were best friends and soul mates who shared a deep spiritual life. Bill always met the challenges of marriage with love and great patience, finding inspiration in the song “Stand by Me.”
He also committed himself to raising his two sons, Logan and Liam, showing great pride in their accomplishments. Delighting in family camaraderie, he shared many of his passions with his sister, Pamela; nephews Bryce and Eston; niece, Talia. Often found helping Pamela with her various building and remodeling projects, he found peace and a deep connection to nature when fishing and camping in Plumas County.
Bill was a romantic, a creative problem solver, and a compassionate humanitarian. A masterful storyteller, he touched many with his love. He will long be remembered cultivating the thriving family garden while listening to his favorite Oldies station and watching the San Francisco Giants games.
