Weston H. Noble
1922 - 2016
Weston H. Noble
1922 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
Weston Noble Obituary
Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, December 29, 2016 at First Lutheran Church, 604 W. Broadway St., Decorah, concluding with a short Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m. Thursday. Rev. Chad Huebner and Rev. Mike Blair will preside.
Private Family Graveside services will be at Riverside Cemetery in Riceville, Iowa, with Full Military Honors, on Friday, December 30, 2016.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the Center for Faith and Life (CFL) on the Luther College campus in Decorah.
Weston Henry Noble was born November 30, 1922 on the family farm in Riceville, Iowa, to Merwin and Ruth (Lappin) Noble. After beginning his education in a one-room country schoolhouse, he attended Riceville High School where he played in the high school band, sang in the choir and performed clarinet solos at state music contests. Graduating from high school at the age of 16, Noble enrolled at nearby Luther College in Decorah in 1939. Majoring in history, in his second year he began leading rehearsals for the choral ensemble, Schola Cantorum. He completed his student teaching at Decorah High School.
In February 1943, the spring semester of his senior year, Noble was called to active duty into the U.S. Army. The college arranged for Noble and his fellow classmates to accelerate their studies and complete their final semester prior to commencement; he graduated magna cum laude. He saw action in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944 as a tank driver and was part of the main Allied attack on Nazi Germany in 1945.
Noble returned to Iowa in 1946 where he taught at the high school and directed the school's music program in Lu Verne. After teaching for two years, he began graduate studies in music at the University of Michigan and in 1948, his alma mater, Luther College, asked Noble to fill a one-year faculty appointment as interim director of the band and choir. His appointment became permanent in 1950.
"Weston's life of faith was integral to his pursuit of music and pursuit of a life well lived in serving God through relationship. The many students he mentored with advice and counsel were blessed with Weston's belief in and affirmation of their performances. Perhaps there has not been such a positive and affirming teacher in the choral and instrumental art in his generation as Weston Noble," said George Gentes, friend and former student. "All of us who have had the privilege to sing or play for Weston know the special expression of inspiration and emotion that would emanate from his face and hands. We felt as if the Light of Christ was shining through him to us as we sang our praises to God and felt forever changed thereafter!
"Our campus community is deeply saddened by this loss. It's hard to overstate Weston's contributions to American choral music and to the rich tradition of music at Luther. He had a deep love for Luther College, and he leaves behind a legacy of musical excellence and service to the college that's an inspiration to us all. God bless the memory of Weston Noble. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Weston's family and the whole Luther family who loved Weston very much," said Luther President Paula Carlson.
Noble was a highly accomplished and honored American music educator and conductor. Most recently the Johnson Professor Emeritus of Music at Luther College, Noble had a 57-year tenure as a conductor and teacher at Luther.
He received acclaim from across the country and the world as the conductor of the Luther College Nordic Choir from 1948 to 2005, the Luther College Concert Band from 1948 to 1973, and as guest director for more than 900 all-state bands, orchestras, choirs and festivals across four continents. Most recently, he conducted the Pacific Summer Music Festival of Guam, Korea National Choir in Seoul, and the International Schools Festival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Noble was a charter member of the American Choral Directors Association and an elected member of the American Bandmasters Association. In 1994 the North Central Division of the American Choral Directors Association established the Weston H. Noble Award for Lifetime Achievement. Noble was the first to be honored by this award.
Because of his outstanding contributions to choral music, Noble was the recipient of the Robert Lawson Shaw Award given by the American Choral Directors Association. For his impressive contributions to instrumental music, he was awarded the 2008 Midwest Clinic Medal of Honor, given by the International Convention of Band and Orchestra Directors.
In the field of music education the National Federation of State High School Associations recognized him as the Outstanding Music Educator of the United States. The National Association for Music Education awarded him the Lowell Mason Fellow Award also in the area of music education/industry.
Noble held five honorary doctoral degrees from Augustana College (South Dakota), St. Olaf College, Westminster Choir College of Rider University, Carthage College and Wartburg College. He was awarded the St. Olav's Medal from King Harald V of Norway for his contributions to Norwegian-American relations.
Following year-long guest residencies at Carthage College, Wartburg College and Augustana College (Sioux Falls), Noble worked part-time for the Luther College Development Office.
In his biography of Noble, "Warmly, Weston: A Luther College Life," Wilfred F. Bunge wrote: "Some of those who emerge from this common story move out into the larger world to do uncommon things. Weston Noble is one of those persons. He has become a legend at the height of his working life. How does one write the story of a legend? Behind the legend lies the common place, not so different from any one of us. Weston's story is more interesting than that of most of us, because of his unusual gifts and accomplishments. But reflection on his life is a way for all of us to reflect on our own lives. His life is interesting for its patterns-rising out of the commonplace to distinction, and yet retaining the common touch of his origins."
Weston is survived by his brother, Lowell (Dixie) Noble of Riceville, Iowa; his twin brother and sister, Joe Noble and Jo Ann Noble, both of Greenville, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Noble (Mrs. Russell) of Rochester, Minnesota and Alice Noble (Mrs. Dale) of Santa Barbara, California; and by several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Merwin and Ruth; and three brothers, Harlan, Russell, and Dale.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Weston Noble Music Scholarship or the Friends of International Touring Scholarship at Luther College, c/o Development Office, 700 College Drive, Decorah, IA 52101.
Rosalie Grangaard Grosch
January 10, 2023
I will sing to the lord as long as I live .
Charles SEIBEL
July 29, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I had the previledge to be directed by Dr. Noble at the 2001 Innsbruck International Choral Festival in Innsbruck, Austria. He was a fantastic person.
Adrian Ridgeway ARCM (Perf) LRAM (London)
May 10, 2018
God Bless you and thank you for the wonderful music which now resides in my heart forever.
Swenette and Fremont Ogle
May 13, 2017
Once in a lifetime we are blessed to meet someone so unique and so rare that it knocks the wind out of us! That was Weston Noble for me. I was not a music major, but I attended all the concerts and appreciated the finest music anywhere. Yet . . . he taught more than music. I learned to be really interested in and care about people. He knew how to accept and to love. I imagine he is thrilled now to be directing heavenly choirs for our Lord! My husband and family agree. Soli deo Gloria.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Lonnie Norwood
January 11, 2017
Music was the vehicle by which Dr. Noble shared many life lessons (and laughs) with me. I'm humbled by his influence, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to share a small piece of his enormous legacy with my students.
"Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Renee Olson
January 10, 2017
The lives that Weston Noble has touched directly and indirectly are infinite to the end of time. Thank you and God Bless you as you conduct the Heavenly Choirs for God.♥
Norm Doty
January 4, 2017
I was not a student of Weston Noble but received his influence through a band director who was mentored by him. That I am sure is why I am a dedicated adult wind musician as recreation. His influence was far-reaching through others.
January 2, 2017
As a former Director of the US Army Chorus, my respect for Weston was enormous. I also saw Weston through the eyes of his former students - a perspective that spoke volumes about his character and his heart. As a spectator I was deeply moved by the ACDA performance of his ensemble in Salt Lake City, and honored to be able to speak of it with him later at dinner in Washington, DC. If ever anyone lived up to such a challenging last name, it was Weston; a truly "noble" and caring individual. Bryan and Sareta Shelburne
Marilyn Bruss Lee
January 2, 2017
Mr. Noble imparted to me a love and dedication for singing unto the Lord. I learned more than I can ever say in just a few words, and he truly shaped my life forever.
Marilyn Bruss Lee, 1976
January 2, 2017
Thank you so much, Mr. Noble.
Steve Lentzkow
Earl Sides
December 30, 2016
While saddened by his passing, we can all be glad that Mr. Noble was a part of our lives. His musicianship, humility, and faith showed us how to be not only good musicians, but good people. By following his example, he will live on. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Rest in Peace.
Steve Hendrickson
December 30, 2016
Mr Noble was a passionate and charismatic conductor. His rehearsals were fast paced and efficient. He made you want to perform and to please him. RIP
Barb Bockhaus Lamfers
December 30, 2016
I definitely didn't have a solo voice. It was 1969 and as a freshman at Luther, my dear friend Debbie D., who could sing, begged me to audition for the choir with her. She was adamant and I couldn't say no. As it was my turn to sing, and sickly, fearful noises came out of my mouth, Weston looked at me with a little curious smile, probably thinking, "What is she doing here......?" But he was much too polite and respectful to ever make me feel worse than I already did. Just that sweet little smile. Reading others' tributes, I am not at all surprised at the depth of his relationship with Jesus.
Thankyou to his family and close friends, for sharing him, his kindness and talents with the world. Only God knows how many people he has touched.
Laura Dahl Popkes
December 30, 2016
To all of Weston's family, including fellow Nordic and WNAC alumni, I know we give God THANKS for Weston Noble! We were truly blessed to have known and loved Weston, and he ministered to each one of us. You couldn't help but feel the Lord's very presence when being conducted by Weston, and now he is with his Lord and Savior. Soli Deo Gloria!
John Clem
December 30, 2016
What a great privilege to have sung under the direction of Mr. Noble (Virginia All-State Chorus-1968). I am very sad. Thank you, Mr. Noble.
Liesl Bringer
December 30, 2016
I am sorry for your loss. I have enjoyed his music all my life.
Frederic Martin
December 29, 2016
Am I the first member of Weston's concert bands to write a memorial?? Come on, band alumni!! ... I will never forget the band's first appearance in Lincoln Center in 1966. Weston arranged for New York Recital Associates to do the publicity, so we had a packed house: main floor filled; first balcony filled; second balcony more than 3/4 filled. We opened with the Shostakovich "Festive Overture." When we were 12 bars from the end of the piece, the audience began to applaud. By the time we were 8 bars from the end, the entire audience was in full, enthusiastic applause which continued for 45 seconds after the cut-off. WHAT A MOMENT!! Thank you, Weston!! for that and for so much more!!
Karen Kittleson, von Allmen
December 29, 2016
Those of us fortunate enough to have been
in the Nordic Choir know how gifted Weston was and how his spiritual input made
the musical result almost heavenly. Yes
Weston had a connection to God. Thanks be to God for Weston H Noble!
Gail Heffner-Charles
December 29, 2016
My heart is so saddened, but I know Weston is with his Redeemer now. Weston was one of my reasons for my voice studies at Luther College.--I only wanted to sing my very best for him. My years in Nordic Choir were life-changing. This past December 9th, when I sang in "The Messiah" sing-along in Columbus, Ohio I could see his face and smiles in my mind as I recalled how he interpreted the choruses for us. I had a nice visit with him just a few years ago when I was on campus for a class reunion. The world of choral music will never be the same without this great musician and mentor. No more words come to mind--it is too overwhelming. We all need to listen to an old Nordic recording and let the spirit of his musical conducting talent wash over us once again...RIP, dear professor.
Patricia Shefveland Jordahl
December 28, 2016
Weston was the greatest mentor a musician could have. He touched so many lives and left great influences throughout the world. Heaven has gained a super angel. We will miss you greatly, Weston
Kim Jones
December 28, 2016
Weston Noble, a shining example of humility and modesty,of kindness and caring. You have influenced so many people. Rest in Peace, Mr. Noble.
Mary Beth Petrak
December 28, 2016
Weston shaped my musical and spiritual self .... artfully, gently, with complete openness of spirit, pure joy, and
unconditional love.
Significant, perhaps, that Weston depart from us on the winter solstice, when daylight begins to increase. And on a day when several generations of his cherished students are undoubtedly at church choir, preparing our hearts, minds, and our music to receive once again the Gift that was most, most dear to him.
Roald Henderson
December 28, 2016
There are so many memories of the gifts that Weston gave to us -- musical memories, life memories. Over time they have melded together. Music has given my life meaning and any time I would rehearse with or talk to Weston or even watch him conduct or listen to him talk to others that meaning was renewed and nourished. He has been a Shepherd in my life. We have been blessed by his presence. Rest in peace, Weston.
December 27, 2016
With grateful hearts...
We remember you.
Hilary Apfelstadt
December 26, 2016
Weston Noble exemplified humility and grace in every aspect of his life. I was fortunate to have several opportunities to observe his leadership with honor choirs and remember the many examples of wonderful music-making he shared. Even more memorable than his musicianship, however, was the way he valued every member of an ensemble, no matter how large a group. He took time to speak to people during breaks or while they gathered before rehearsal, and in the act of making individual contact with them, assured their loyalty to him, to the ensemble, and to the music. It was a powerful lesson to see. What a gift. May he rest in peace. His influence is everlasting.
Peter Eliason
December 25, 2016
How often in our lives do we encounter an individual who impacts us in such a profound manner that it fundamentally changes who we are as human beings? Weston taught me to see the art and the story in everything I did. Every piece we sang, every concert hall and church we sang in, and every composer always had some story behind it, and Weston had the uncanny ability to extract just the right amount of detail to make the story infinitely relevant or to breathe life into the piece or the concert. This practice of finding the "story" behind the song has influenced me as I approach music, people, and religion as a whole. The example that Weston set is a model characterization of a leader - not one that leads through command or boasting, but one that leads with humility and tenderness. Thank you Weston, for your years of service to the college, for your sharing your gifts and love for music, and for the many hearts you've shaped and touched (including mine). You are sorely missed.
December 25, 2016
It was an honor to know this man and be in his presence. He was a wonderful person with so much to offer. I was blessed to meet him at a very young age and was able to sing in many Luther honor choirs throughout high school. Such a wonderful experience. Prayers be with the family.
RHONDA BOETTCHER
December 25, 2016
In the late 60's I was in the music office and was asked to cover the phone for a few minutes. The phone rang and I announced "Luther College, Music Dept. May I help you?" The gentleman asked for Weston. I said he wasn't in, but could I take a message. He said "tell him Lenny called." I said, "Lenny who?" He said Leonard Bernstein. Mr. Noble was known and respected by so many people around the world. He put Luther College on the musical map. He left a legacy for all of us to emulate. He worked very hard to prepare us for that blessed and honorable calling. Soli Deo Gloria! Rhonda Rossler Boettcher, Class of '70
Brian Jorgensen
December 25, 2016
I was one of hundreds who had the life changing experience of singing under Mr. Noble while attending Luther. When I was a senior he led the Nordic Choir on its first tour of the Carribbean, both coasts, and Mexico. At each and every concert Mr. Noble inspired us, and no two concerts were exactly the same-a raised eyebrow, a hand gesture, or dropping his arms, brought something new to the music. He will always be remembered. Soli Deo Gloria.
Brian Jorgensen Luther 1980
December 24, 2016
Sincere sympathy.
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace constantly in every way. May the Lord be with all of you."
~ 2Thessalonians 3:16
Dena OBrien
December 24, 2016
Our deepest condolences to your family. He was so loved, admired and a blessing to many who knew him. Prayers for peace and comfort.
Blessings from the family of Don and Carol Mahoney.
Thomas Busch
December 24, 2016
It has been my privilege to know both Joe and Jo Ann Noble. My prayers are with you and your family.
Paul Bertram
December 24, 2016
"You were truly a Noble Man"
Thank you, Thank you, Thank You.
Hallie (Billman) Linderbaum '99
December 23, 2016
I was not in music at Luther but sang in the Messiah each year. It was a privilege and an honor to be directed by him. I remember in one practice he was describing the ending, high, twinkling notes as "the littlest angels returning to heaven". I know those angels are welcoming you now Weston Noble!
Ryan Beeman Wieland
December 23, 2016
In 2001, I was a sophomore at Luther College, pursuing a biology major, looking toward biomedical engineering, wanting to improve the quality of life of people struggling with physical conditions. I was annoyed that because it was a liberal arts school, I was required to take English and Religion classes. I was doing well in the difficult classes in my major, but my spirit was restless- I found that the reason I was getting out of bed each morning wasn't the chemistry, the calculus, the biology labs, but the campus ministry, the religion classes, the chapel services. I was working in the admissions office one day when the choir director, Weston Noble, walked in- he was about 80 years old and was a fixture on the campus- rumor had it that at his request his salary was $1 a year and he could be seen picking up trash around campus on his way to rehearsals. I never had the honor of singing in one of his choirs, and we had only met for a scholarship audition and brief conversation long before I began attending Luther. He walked into the office, smiled at me and walked right up to the desk. He talked to the admissions director for a moment, then turned toward me. How are you doing in your classes? Doing well, I replied. Remind me, what's your major? he asked. Biology, I answered, biomedical engineering. He thought for a moment in silence. Nope, that's not it, he said, and then went back to talking to the admissions director, leaving me completely speechless. That's all the nudge I needed- I didn't even need him to tell me which way to go- I just needed to be told to go. Two years later I was off to seminary in Colorado, and since that day I have served in ministry in Colorado, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, England, Pennsylvania, and now as the pastor of Grandville United Methodist Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We are all called to moments of prophetic witness if we are faithful and listening for God's leading, and Weston Noble played that role at the perfect moment in my life, as I'm sure he did for many others.
In God's Grace,
Rev. Ryan Beeman Wieland
Grandville UMC, Grandville MI
Anne Marie (Ouverson) Bice
December 23, 2016
Three squeezes to you, Mr. Noble.
Thank you and Rest In Peace
James Moyer
December 23, 2016
Rest in Peace Weston Noble, a great man, musician, teacher, and humanitarian. You have left us all in a better place because of your gifts to the choral community, as well as the world.
Deb and Mark Elstad
December 23, 2016
We have been so blessed to witness and share Weston's glorious gifts, deep and profound faith, humble life and friendship. Soli Deo Gloria
Patricia Hauslein
December 23, 2016
Though Weston Noble will be missed by so many I cannot say there will be a hole left because he is gone from us. So many 1000's of lives were touched by the gift of music he gave, and the light of that gift is so bright that it will spill from us and from heaven itself for generations upon generations. Thank you Weston.
Beth (Lounsberry) Rumph
December 23, 2016
Thank you, God, for the life of your servant Weston Noble. I first knew Weston while growing up as a musician in Iowa & then our paths continued to cross after I moved to Texas. I always loved singing with him & still marvel at the beauty he could create through music. What a blessing. He remains one of my favorite musicians & choral conductors of all time. A gifted man & a life of true inspiration! I am so grateful to have known him.
Jennifer Lyons
December 22, 2016
I was lucky enough to sing under Weston Noble when I was a senior in high school in MN All State Choir and 2 years later was honored to sing with Nordic Choir for 2 years. I have never experienced music as I did in those 2 years. Every time the choir sang you could feel the presence of something great than us alone. It was because of Weston that experience will be with me always. R.I.P . The Angels will be singing more beautifully than before. Can't think of a better place for you to be this Christmas. Thank you for so much!
Charles Hoven
December 22, 2016
I first met Weston in Valders Room 117 the fall of 1981. It was the first rehearsal of The Messiah and I marveled at his interpretation of the music as more than notes and words. His love of his job went far beyond teaching as he wanted you to experience music fully. From that encounter, I realized Weston was a pillar of the Luther community. His spirit will live on through all those he taught. You lived your life well. Soli Deo Gloria.
Paul Gere
December 22, 2016
Two generations of my family offer their prayers and condolences at the loss of this great man. My parents and my wife's parents all sang or played under Weston's direction at Luther in the mid-50"s. Years later, so did I - first at a Dorian camp and then as a member of Nordic Choir. His lessons were too many to list. Weston never forgot a name and was such a bright light. I was forever changed. God bless you, Mr. Noble, and may He comfort your family and all of us who were lucky enough to know you.
Paul and Susan Gere ('89)
Elise Nelson
December 22, 2016
To the family of Weston, you have my deepest sympathy on the passing of a great and gentle man.
I can remember being in high school and they needed to use the orchestra there to help the Luther orchestra at Messiah concerts. So I have been under his direction. I will cherish the experience.
Vance Wolverton
December 22, 2016
Every year immediately following All-State auditions, Weston called seniors all over the state to congratulate them. Naturally, this was a very effective means of recruiting students to attend Luther College, Weston's alma mater and so much more! My Harlan (IA) students would inevitably say "Do you know who called me last night?" and I would play along, saying "Who?" They would respond that Mr. Noble had called to congratulate them and they were so very complimented! This man taught us all so much more than music...he taught us about humanity. RIP dear, dear Weston.
Nancy Moldt Sugges
December 22, 2016
I was honored to sing 'The Messiah' under the direction of Mr. Noble the Christmas of 1957. It has been an experience I have never forgotten as the tears ran down his face with the beauty of the soloists and choir. His legacy is profound.
Linda Palmer
December 22, 2016
Music was a mere vessel that Mr. Noble used to transport us to new friendships, and to memories that we would hold dear for a lifetime. He brought so much joy to so many of us. Many condolences to Joe Noble and Weston's family.
Brian Rude '77
December 22, 2016
Weston was truly a wonderful gift for all of us who had that rare opportunity to sing in his choir. It was more than the terrific music we made together, it was the deep message and the lasting impact on our souls. I know he would encourage us not to mourn but to "give thanks in all circumstances." I am thankful for having him as part of my life. Truly, he was a man of God in every respect!
Rick Thompson
December 22, 2016
I never sang in Nordic Choir, but I did sing in "The Messiah" choir under Weston Noble's direction. As he taught how the music enhanced the text, lead with passion, and bared his humble, faithful soul, I was gifted with one of the most meaningful spiritual experiences of my life.
Jill Peterson
December 22, 2016
Because of you dear Weston, I walk with Him. Christ is in me and in my life. Mark and I are nearing 30 years of marriage, a choir tour romance that has lasted. God is so good!!! Weston, you radiated God's love and mercy when we sang, you will be missed. Rest In Peace (and dance)
Rosalie Grosch
December 22, 2016
I knew Weston Noble all my life, having lived in Decorah. My oldest sister was his age. I wanted more than anything to sing in Nordic and was thrilled to be singing with him for my four years at Luther. I was the soloist for the first time the choir sang JESUS JESUS REST YOUR HEAD. I was so moved by that experience. Noble taught me more than how to sing in a choir - he taught me and showed me how to live my life as a follower of Jesus. He will never be forgotten. Rosalie Grangaard Grosch
Kristen (Learman) Stengl, Class of '08
December 22, 2016
Weston Noble was a rare soul. Even if he didn't know you well, any interaction with him was always so warm and genuine and for anyone fortunate enough to have had the experience, singing for him was pure joy. God speed, Mr. Noble.
Thomas Mayfield
December 22, 2016
I met Weston at the Dorian Music Festival while in high school and it was because of him I chose Luther.
During the Christmas season Weston and I went to Orchestra Hall to see Robert Shaw conduct Handel's Messiah.
Every time I hear the Messiah I remember that special time we shared.
His kindness, gentle spirit and the wonderful choral experience are treasured and dear to my heart!
Thank you Weston!
Jim Klosterboer
December 22, 2016
Mr. Noble's children are in grief, and I am one of them. No one in college did more to teach me than Mr. Noble. No one has ever done more to show me that gentleness, humility, and serenity of soul have such power. He was a conduit that brought the love and music of God to us, and to the world. Though sorrowful, I am so very grateful for having known this righteous man - Weston Noble.
Kyle Hustedt, '02
December 22, 2016
During a concert at Pacific Lutheran University the spirit, the music and the man moved me to release my inner burdens and struggles and that night I opened my heart to become the man I am today. As Mr. Noble conducted he looked into my tear filled eyes and he did not look away for the rest of the piece, he had a way of staring you in the soul you see. Afterward, I was heading down the hall to remove my robe and Mr. Noble broke from his conversation with the head of the Canadian Choral Directors Assn. to grab me saying: "I saw you tonight" I tried to downplay it and he again, looked me in the soul and stated "No, I saw YOU tonight" I began to cry once again and Mr. Noble held me and the only words of comfort he offered were: "I know." He did know, he always knew - that was one of the many gifts that he possessed wasn't it - to really see people. I will forever carry his love with me as so many will. His light burns brightly in us all. Soli Deo Gloria, Rest in Peace Mr. Noble.
Barb Lutz
December 22, 2016
We all have stories. Mine is small. I am not a singer. I have no musical talent. Yet I sang in the Messiah my sophomore year. On a lark and to have that experience we were all supposed to have. In one of the pieces we choir of 900 sang i literally felt the presence of God. The first time I had ever had this experience in my weak faith existence at the time. The only other time in my life that I felt this God presence was 4 years later. But that is another story. Thank You Weston for your life!
Amanda Fall-Haker
December 22, 2016
I have so many memories of festivals, camps, Nordic Choir, The Messiah...thank you, Weston, for inspiring me to live through music. I still have my Messiah score with Noble quotes written in the margins. I will treasure the memories as long as I live...Oh, Lord God...the angels are singing.
Jon Lahann
December 22, 2016
The very first song we rehearsed in my first Nordic rehearsal - "Arise, Shine" by Jean Berger. Weston's light was and will be a beacon for others for a long time to come.
Marilyn Gerdeen
December 22, 2016
While singing in Weston Noble's Nordic choir, I imagined that the experience must be like singing in our Lord's heavenly choir!
Phil Devries class of '85
December 22, 2016
What an inspiring human being. He was such a gift to all who knew him. Heaven's choir just got a great addition. Soli Deo Gloria
Gayle Shay
December 22, 2016
The phone call from Mr. Noble asking me if I might consider applying to Luther College was the beginning of a journey into a career in the arts and in arts education. Much of what he taught me serves me well today as an educator and a performer. Not only the musical lessons learned under his gentle guidance, but the selflessness he constantly exhibited to the service of his craft and to his students and colleagues. He will live on in so many of us and I am so thankful to have known him. We all hold hands and sing together in his memory. Soli Deo Gloria.
Jesse Simpson
December 22, 2016
I will miss this man, who taught me so much of music and beauty. The times I spent with him in rehearsal and in performance were some of the most moving of my time at Luther. The footprints he left in students lives were often indelible and irrevocable, as he taught us grace and humility and good humor and friendship, while we thought we were just rehearsing. The world seems somehow smaller and shabbier with his passing. The Kingdom of Heaven, however, has been forever enriched.
Alison Wathen
December 22, 2016
The choirs of angels have gained a wonderful new director. You were the reason I chose Luther, your musical legacy will live on, through us, forever. You will be missed, and we loved you.
Karen Hansen
December 22, 2016
To one of the biggest influences in my life, I wish you peace in heaven, and a chance to conduct the heavenly choir next to your friend, Robert Shaw!
Robert Stevens
December 22, 2016
A truly beautiful human being whose impact on music was only surpassed by his impact on humanity.
Judy (Babcock) Hatlem
December 22, 2016
Soli Deo Gloria ~ No love, no friendship can ever cross our path without affecting us in some way forever! (Mr. Noble, you will be missed. Rest now with the angels; sing Hallelujah with the heavenly choirs!)
Wes Clark
December 22, 2016
When my father passed in 1989, one of his recently graduated high school students was an accompanist for Mr. Noble. In a way that clearly demonstrates the greatness of this man, Mr. Noble sensed that something was 'off' and he asked her if everything was ok. As I remember the story now, the young lady explained about the death of my father. Mr. Noble stopped the rehearsal and paused to console her and share in her sadness saying, 'then you have lost someone important.' It's now my turn to reach out to Joe Noble and say, 'you have lost someone important.' My condolences to all who loved this great and kind man, particularly his family. Peace be with you at this time.
Samuel Wilson
December 22, 2016
Being a part of The Nordic Choir was truly an honor, but to have been conducted by Dr. Noble was the greatest. He not only was a great conductor but also a great faculty advisor to me. The Nordic song, O Lord God and its words have been my life verse, as I sing even today. Truly, my life and heart lives, the words, i will sing to The Lord, as long as i live. i will sing praises unto my God, while i have my being.
I know heaven has gained the best choir conductor in the world. He will be missed.
Love,
Samuel Wilson
Tyler Hagy
December 22, 2016
Weston gave so much to so many people around the world and inspired thousands of people to follow in his footsteps. I feel so fortunate to have sung in the "house that Weston built" and to have studied conducting with him as one of his last conducting students. What an inspiring and gentle soul he was.
Erik Stoen
December 22, 2016
To the Noble family:
You are in my thoughts and prayers. You have my deepest sympathy, with your loss of Weston.
Weston touched many lives, in many countries and in the classroom.
He will be be missed by all.
Barbara Rossow
December 22, 2016
Weston Noble gave everyone he met love and inspiration. He expected the best from us and we worked hard to give that to him. He taught us lessons that have lasted a lifetime. What a privilege to have know him.
Erik Jensen
December 22, 2016
God be with you 'til we meet again, Dr. Noble.
Huck Usgaard
December 22, 2016
"I will sing to the Lord as long as I live...I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."
Paige Silver
December 22, 2016
Mr. Noble brought love and light into the lives of too many to count. We have lost a great man, but his legacy is beyond measure.
Julie Vulk
December 22, 2016
Dear Noble Family and Weston's friends, my deepest sympathy to you all at this time. Weston has had a big impact on millions of people. His faith in the Lord was so steadfast. He is in our prayers.
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
306 East Water Street, Decorah, IA 52101
Make a Donation
in Weston Noble's name
How to support Weston's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Weston Noble's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more