Ralph Noeske

Ralph Albert Noeske was born on November 9, 1923 in Noltimier Township, rural Barnes County, ND, the son of Albert and Lillian (Hoffman) Noeske. He was baptized and confirmed at Salem United Methodist Church and took part in Methodist youth camps at Chautauqua Park. He attended Noltimier School, rural Valley City, where he was a member of the graduating class of 1942. Ralph went on to Valley City State College. He served in the US Army from 1946-1947. On September 26, 1953 he married Helen Joy Winter. They made their home on the family farm, where he continued his lifelong career of farming. Ralph became friends with some western ranchers who were promoting the “feeding out of cattle.” Ralph tried this and some of his cattle were chosen to be displayed on Broadway in Fargo, ND as part of a promotion. Ralph was very active in his church. He helped in the development of the Wesley Acres Camp, sang in the choir while he was a member at Salem United Methodist as well as being Sunday School Superintendent. He transferred his membership to Epworth United Methodist Church and served as a trustee there. Ralph served as the Farm Land Manager of Trustees of the United Methodist Dakota Conferences for 14 years. He was a member of the ND Stockman’s Association and served on the Barnes County Farmers Home Administration advisory committee. He was on the board of the Barnes County Crop Improvement Association, Noltimier Township Board, and served as a member of the Barnes County Township Officers Association. Ralph also served as chairman of the Hi-line Farmers Union Grain Company board and was a director of Farmers Union Oil Company in Valley City. He was also one of the leaders of the North Valley Boys 4-H Club. A quiet man, strong in his faith, Ralph was an avid reader and a loyal Twins fan. He enjoyed time spent with his eleven grandchildren. He was wise, trusting, and kind; respected by anyone who knew him. He never judged anyone and he had a quiet way of showing his love and affection, but was always quick to add humor to the conversation. He gave of himself and left his children and grandchildren with many memories and taught them many lifelong lessons that they will be proud to carry on his legacy forever. He will be missed greatly. Ralph passed away at the Sheyenne Care Center in Valley City on April 28, 2013 at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife, Helen Joy; children, son: Brad (Janelle) of Valley City, grandchildren Jeff, Jill; son: William (Nancy) of Valley City, grandchildren Stephanie (Kris Overby), David, Nick; son: Jim (Aimee) of Edina, MN, grandchildren Beau (Jessica), Jayme, Blake; and son: Jerry (Amy) of Valley City, grandchildren Jenessa, Lindsey, and Samuel; a sister, Myra (Hillis) McKay of St. Charles, MN; a brother, Jerry (Rita) Noeske of Port Angeles, WA; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family suggests memorials be directed towards Epworth Methodist Youth. The funeral service for Ralph A. Noeske, 89, Valley City, ND will be 10:00 AM, Friday, May 3, 2013 at Epworth United Methodist Church, Valley City, followed by military honors. Burial will be later in the spring at Memory Gardens, Valley City. He died at the Sheyenne Care Center on April 28, 2013. Visitation will be held in the Oliver-Nathan Funeral Chapel, Valley City from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday, May 2, 2013. There will also be a time for viewing an hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.

Ralph Noeske

November 9, 1923 - April 28, 2013