Lester Raymond Noland

Lester Raymond Noland, 84, of Medford, town of Browning, died Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at his home surrounded by family and while under the care of Hope Hospice.

He was born February 12, 1940 to Carl and Marcella (Rothamer) Noland.  He grew up in Medford where he attended school. 

On October 6, 1962, Lester married Joyce Poirier.  They resided in the town of Browning for most of their marriage.

Lester’s working years started at Northland Furniture in Medford. He then worked for ten years as the caretaker for Holy Rosary church, school and cemeteries, until purchasing a dairy farm in the town of Browning, which he farmed until his retirement.  He loved working outside, caring for the animals, gardening and mowing the yard.  He found peace in nature and the tranquil surroundings of the farm.  Not only did he keep busy on his property, but he enjoyed helping others, going to tractor pulls, and tending to his hobby of coin collecting.

Lester’s best moments were spent with family. He loved attending his great-grandchildren’s events and programs, and spending time with his ten siblings. He looked forward to hosting their annual “snow parties” in his basement, which were full of food, laughter and fun.

Lester is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joyce of Medford; two daughters, Kelly (Tom) Draeger of Rochester, MN, Dawn Larson of Medford; ten siblings, Robert,  Esther (Peter) Henrichs, David (Sharon), Michael (Christine), Lee (Nancy), Lawrence “Larry” (Linda), Sharon (James) Frischmann, Sandy (Don) Erl, Margaret “Maggie” (David) Dahl, Patrick (Audrey); grandchildren, Dustin (Samantha) Draeger, Ashley (Orlando) Sapon, Nicholas Wood; great-grandchildren, Kaydence, Maggie, Teddy and Ben Draeger, Olivia and Noah Sapon; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved beagle, Bailey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Delores Noland; and son-in-law, Frank Larson.

A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, January 6, 2025 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Fr. Patrick McConnell officiating.  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.

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