Joseph R. Noel

Joseph R. Noel, 73, Ruskin, Florida, formerly of Altoona, passed away Monday, May 6, 2024 at Post Acute Medical Specialty Hospital, Sarasota, Florida. Born August 16, 1950, Altoona, son of the late Herbert J. and Olive A. (Lidwell) Noel. Preceded in death by his first wife, Johanna L. (Claudia) Noel. Survived by his wife, Shirley A. (Campbell) Noel, whom he married on September 3, 2016; children, Jessica Noel, Altoona; and Joseph (Jialei) Noel, Duncansville; grandson, Leo Noel; step-children, Chad (Gwen) Donnelly, Ridgeville, IN; and Meredith Gatling, Harrisburg; step-granddaughters, Amelia and Sophia Donnelly; and Olivia Gatling; siblings, Jude Birch, Hollidaysburg; Phillip (Susan) Noel, Edinburg, VA; and Michele (William) Tremmel, Sinking Valley; and numerous, bothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Joseph was a 1968 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School. He was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War, serving from 1969-1971 and earning the rank of Specialist 5. Joseph graduated from St. Francis College, Loretto, earning his School of Medical Technology degree in Bioscience and Clinical Lab Sciences. He also studied at York College of PA. Joseph retired from Altoona Regional Hospital in 2012 as the Medical Laboratory Science Program Director. He enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and NASCAR, and going scuba diving, hunting, boating, biking and attending car shows. Most importantly, Joseph cherished spending time with his family and friends. Friends and family will be received Friday, June 21, 2024 from 7-9 p.m., Jones Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 10 a.m., Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona, Msgr. Stanley Carson celebrant. Graveside services with military honors provided by the Blair County Honor Guard will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Altoona. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 3033 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22201. Arrangements have been entrusted to Jones Funeral Home, An Anderson Family Firm, 1222 13th Avenue, Altoona. Condolences may be made at JonesFHAltoona.com.