William Noyes, 85

William Charles “Papa” Noyes, age 85, passed on April 9, 2023. Loving husband, father of four, grandfather of eight and several great grandchildren. A man of great character, a charming wit and timely sense of humor, often the life of the party will be missed by an array of family, extended family and those who benefitted from the broad shoulders of love he extended.

William was born August 14, 1937 in North Adams, Massachusetts, to Edgar and Grace Noyes. He was predeceased by his wife Larrie Ann Noyes and his son Timothy Landry Noyes. Bill spent his childhood in and around Williamstown and many summers at a family farm in Cambridge, New York. The working summers in Cambridge provided Bill with an unwavering work ethic and a real connection to nature. Those summers on the farm proved to leave a lasting and powerful impression and an experience that he would look at with great fondness throughout his life.

He attended Williamstown Schools before departing on a whirlwind tour of the world courtesy of the United States Air Force (1955-1959). This was a period of time that he often reflected on with great pride and enjoyment. Upon his return he met the love of his life and soulmate for some 60 years, Larrie Ann Reopell, or “Mimi.” Together they would work to build a life together and provide for their family. Bill would often work several jobs in order to provide life's essentials as well as ensuring that special gift was under the tree for Christmas morning.

The 1970’s brought Bill to Williams College where he would spend the next 30+ years working in various capacities from Dining Services, Security, and ultimately to his primary role in the Buildings and Grounds department. He was by all accounts a company man, realizing that the opportunity offered to him and his family from Williams College was a gift to cherish. He took his responsibilities seriously, and viewed his work as a reflection not only of his character but that of the institute he represented.

He took this same passion he had for his work into his personal life. He had a great affection for skiing, hiking, biking and swimming. These activities along with a wanderlust that was instilled from his Air Force days was always part of his need for constant motion. He was always ready to go somewhere regardless of the distance, especially as it related to his family's needs. A highlight of both his and Mimi's life was a trip to Ireland that they were able to enjoy upon their retirements. This, along with trips across the country and his yearly trips with his family to Sunset Beach, North Carolina, were highlights and brought him great joy. Mimi’s at-home child care provided the perfect outlet for a loving man who took to being a surrogate grandfather to so many of the children. Providing a fun-loving child-like excitement to each child was a gift. He had an ability to weave together stories that could entertain and provide Mimi with respite after a long day of childcare. Regardless of how long he had been at work he knew that Mimi always had the tougher job. As always his character and work ethic provided his compass. It was together where Mimi and Papa were their finest versions of themselves. Mimi’s passing had a powerful impact on him all while struggling with his own health concerns of stage five kidney failure. The years following Mimi's death proved to be the most difficult in his life. The loss of his soulmate and the life they built together was at times more than he could endure. His passing will ease his pain as he reunites with Mimi and Timmy.

The family would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Vermont Veterans Home of Bennington for the excellent care and support they provided for Papa. The family will have a celebration of both Mimi & Papa’s life at a later date. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.