George Noel
ESCANABA – George “Bud” Noel, 95, of Escanaba, passed away at home on Monday, January 12, 2026 surrounded by his family.
George was born on June 5, 1930 in Escanaba, son of Lester and Elda (Nephew) Noel. He was raised in Wells and attended Escanaba High School.
After high school, George joined the US Marine Corps. During his service, he was stationed in Korea from 1952-1953 and was awarded the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the United Nations Medal. He achieved the rank of Corporal and was honorably discharged in September of 1953. In 2016, George was able to take part in the U.P. Honor Flight with his son, Marty.
George Noel married Carol Way at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Wells on May 19, 1956. They raised five children together and were able to spend over 69 years before his passing.
He worked for the C&NW Railroad as a brakeman and conductor from 1948 until 1989.
George and Carol appreciated the winters spent in Arizona from 1989-2000. He enjoyed the many years at the family camp in Arnold and an “occasional” highball with the gang.
Among survivors include his wife, Carol; children, Michael (Susan) Noel of Iron Mountain, Martin Noel of Escanaba, Mark Noel of Escanaba, Jody (Pam) Noel of Greenfield, WI, and Tamra (Mark) Kallio of Escanaba; grandchildren, David (Casey) Noel, James (Jodie) Noel, Ryan (Elli) Pepin, Katie (Andy) Mendina, Lisa Mahoney, Lesley (Jake) Delvaux, Nate (Janel) Noel, Jack Noel, and Nick Kallio; 16 great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, George is preceded in death by infant daughter, Debra Fay Noel; and siblings, Joyce (Roy) Belanger, Fay (Bob) Way, Lois (Leo) LaCrosse, and Ronald (Helen) Noel.
Visitation will take place on Monday, January 19th from noon – 1:30 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. Military honors will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. and the funeral service will immediately follow with Rev. Rick Courier officiating. Graveside services will take place in Gardens of Rest Cemetery with a meal to follow at St. Anthony’s Church in Wells.
Messages of condolence can be directed to the family at www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.
