Melvyn Noecker

Melvyn “Bud” Noecker passed away Saturday, December 12, 2009 at Merit Care Hospital in Fargo, as the result of a fall in his home December 9.

Bud was born April 13, 1917, in Sanborn, North Dakota, youngest son of Ferdinand and Augusta (Barthel) Noecker. His mother died in childbirth and he was raised by his paternal aunt and uncle, Matilda and William Anderson, who loved him as their own. He graduated from Courtenay High School and attended vocational school in Fargo.

Returning to Courtenay for a Homecoming dance, he met his future wife, Alice Mae McBroom. They were married December 14, 1942, while he was on leave during his service in WWII in Europe in the Army Air Corp as a First Lieutenant. One of the medals he was awarded was the Oak Leaf Cluster for meritorious achievement while piloting a troop carrier in Holland. He made what many called an impossible landing, saving the lives of all the troops aboard his plane.

Bud and Alice had two daughters, Linda and Carol. He farmed, owned and operated Courtenay Motors, sold many Ford vehicles, owned and operated the Courtenay school buses for over 30 years, custom combined, hauled grain and gravel and did any other work that needed to be done. The strong work ethic and helping friends and neighbors were a core part of his character.

Bud was a lifelong member of the B.P.O.E and the American Legion. He served on the Courtenay School Board and was a Volunteer Fireman for many years. Bud and Alice were married over 25 years, when Alice died suddenly in 1972.

Later Bud met Delores Donegan, and after a lengthy courtship they were married September 9, 1979. Bud continued farming with the help of Delores’ brother Jim Kokott until he sold out in 1995. He then retired in Jamestown with Delores. Until the time of his fall, every morning he enjoyed his daily walk for breakfast and the mail. He was well known for being active in his later years.

Bud loved his family, friends, farming, blackjack and a good nap. He will be missed by many.

Bud is survived by his wife, Delores; daughter Linda (Dan) Alsager, Flint, MI; daughter Carol (Steve) Hackley, Poplar, MT; step-daughter, Sandy (Mike) Gazdiewich, Wheat Ridge, CO; and step-son, J.T. Donegan, Engelwood, CO. Bud also leaves seven grandchildren: Katie, Christina, Kelli, Nathan, Ryan, Chris and Shannon.

Memorials may be sent to Camp Grassick for disabled children or the the local charity F.A.C.E.