Stephen Eric Noel – fondly known to all as “Steve” – lived a storybook life that spanned decades of adventure, heart, and boundless generosity. He passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, at UPMC Hospital in Altoona, PA, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, passion, and warmth that could light up any room.

Born November 6, 1957, in Spangler, PA, to Robert T.  (“RT”) Noel and Marian ("Grammy") Noel (Tonkin), Steve was the third son in a family where bonds ran deep. Although his father, RT, and his brothers, Mark, Tony, and Rick “Grizz” preceded him in death, the memory of his early family life remained a guiding force. He is survived by his mother, Marian, two sisters, Suzie and Shelly – a testament to the enduring strength of family ties.

Steve’s life was enriched by his long and loving marriage to Ann M. Andrews, whom he married on October 9, 1976. Together, they navigated life’s twists and turns, creating countless memories and a partnership that spanned decades. His two children, Chris and Mary, along with three cherished grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, continue to celebrate the vibrant legacy of their father and uncle.

A man of many passions, Steve was as comfortable on the golf course as he was on a piece of CAT equipment. At Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA, he refined his swing and forged lifelong friendships. As Vice President of Operations at The Anderson Company, he built relationships that went far beyond business. Whether it was bonding and cracking jokes with his crews in the field or early morning strategy sessions with company owner and long-time friend Jim Anderson, Steve’s presence was both inspiring and uplifting.

Steve’s enthusiasm for life was infectious. A devoted supporter of all things Black and Gold and Blue and White, he cheered passionately for Pirates baseball, Penguins hockey, Steelers football, and Penn State Nittany Lions football. His spirited loyalty made every game a celebration of life, each victory a shared triumph among friends and family.

Equally at home on vacation at the beach in South Florida, Steve found peace in the early mornings on the balcony of the Jupiter Beach Resort, greeting each sunrise with his third cup of coffee. In those quiet moments, he surveyed his world with a meticulous eye for detail – always ensuring that his people, his equipment, and even his dirt were perfectly in place back in Northern Virginia.

From his humble beginnings in the coal mines of Central Pennsylvania, where he worked for his father, to his groundbreaking achievements in Northern Virginia and the great successes of his children, Steve’s journey was characterized by bold moves and meaningful connections. Whether he was working alongside his son, who often arrived at the shop first to manage dispatch, contributing to the final grading of Nationals Park alongside his brother-in-law, David “Bones” Andrews, stressing his daughter by allowing his granddaughter to drive a golf cart just a little too fast, or simply savoring retirement with a reflective morning coffee on the porch in Rosebud with his wife Ann, every chapter of his life was lived with intensity and purpose.

Steve didn’t just live life; he embraced it with a roaring passion, leaving a lasting imprint on everyone he encountered. His generosity – evident in everything from his sizeable tips to his open, welcoming conversations – was rivaled only by the size of his heart. In every moment, he reminded us to live big, live loud, and be all in.

Though Steve’s journey has come to an end, the echoes of his vibrant spirit, bold adventures, and unwavering love will continue to inspire us every day. We are all the better for witnessing his extraordinary life; his legacy will forever shine brightly in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

… We Are!  A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Gibbons Funeral Home 1085 Main St. Coalport, PA 16627. www.gibbonsfhashvillecoalport.com