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It is with great sadness that

we announce the passing of Robert M Noakes on

Thursday, October 29, 2015 at the age of 91.  Bob was born and raised on the family farm in Balfour, BC He spent time in the RCAF during WW2 and returned to Balfour where he raised a family and worked on the Kootenay Lake Ferries.  He retired as Captain of both the MV Anscomb and MV Balfour in 1986.  He later moved to Vernon, BC where he resided until his passing.  Bob is survived by his wife Irene, children Mark (Shannon), Joanne (David), Judy (Chris) Victor, stepdaughter Diane (Ken), twin brother Chuck (Nina) and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and of course his beloved dog, Buffy and golf partners Bill and Neta.   An avid golfer he could always be found on the golf course and had 3 Hole in One awards to boast of – one he received at the age of 89.  He loved to fish and play tennis and badminton and stayed active his whole life.


Bob takes with him all our love and admiration but leaves behind a wealth of wisdom, laughter and memories.  He may be gone but our love for him will never die.


At Bob’s request, his body has been donated to the UBC for the advancement of science. We are sure he has much to teach them.  A social gathering to share memories and celebrate his life will be organized in Balfour, BC during the summer of 2016. Bob was an avid supporter of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital so a donation to their foundation in his name would be gratefully appreciated.  Donations can be sent to Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation –

2101 32 Street, Vernon, BC V1T 5L2.



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