ALBION – Keith A. Noyes of Albion passed away peacefully Sunday morning, July 26, 2015, with his family by his side in the house that he was born in on Aug. 22, 1933. Starting from humble beginnings with nothing, Keith along with his wife Mary-Lou raised five children and operated a successful dairy farm for many years.
To say that Keith farmed for a living would be an understatement; he lived to farm. Keith had a passion and love for agriculture and dairy farming; he was among the best of the best. Keith felt that caring for the land and animals was an obligation to be taken seriously and it was a sin not to do so. He deeply believed in leaving things better than you found them. One time Keith was asked why he made a large land purchase instead of using the money to retire, he quickly snapped and responded, “I’d rather look at the land than the money.” This summed up Keith.
Keith had many interests in life one of which was quietly helping others in need. He was quick to help anyone who needed it without wanting recognition. He especially enjoyed helping young farmers who we’re starting out, generously sharing his vast knowledge in farming. Keith’s work ethic, dedication and commitment were unprecedented, the best example being that he never missed a morning or evening of milking cows for 17 years straight.
Keith had a passion for outdoor activities including snowmobiling, fishing, and in particular deer hunting; in which he was a professional. He hunted for many years often giving deer meat to people who loved it, but could no longer hunt. He enjoyed watching the Red Sox and always followed the local high school basketball tournaments.
Keith was a member of the Albion Oddfellows for which he held a 50-year pin. He was also a National Farmers Organization member for years holding several offices. In 1986, Keith was recipient of the Kennebec District Outstanding Farmer of the Year award. He also contributed to many local groups, including the Albion Lions Club.
Keith is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary-Lou Nelson Noyes; five children: Karen Noyes Moody of Albion, Chuck and Deborah Noyes of Albion, Julie Noyes Tillson and James McCarthy of Vergennes, Vermont, Cameron and Kathleen of China, and Andy and Denise Fisher-Noyes of Albion.; 12 grandchildren: Bethany, Stephanie, Holly, Keith, Meredith, Greta, Evan, Travis, Kadie, Andrew, Darcie and Cassandra; four great grandchildren; sister, Jennie Rood and Harold of Waterville; sister-in-law Ruth Noyes of South Portland; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Keith was predeceased by his parents, William and Leola Noyes; three sisters, Katherine Ireland, Roberta Stuart, Glennis Mayo and a brother William Noyes.
A celebration of his life will be held at the corner of the Yorktown Road and Libby Hill Road in Albion on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015 at 1 p.m. Bring your appetite and a good story about Keith to share. A private burial will be held at Lincoln Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to MeANS (Maine Academy of Natural Sciences) an educational program of Good Will-Hinckley, PO Box 159, Hinckley, ME 04944 or online at means-gwh.org. Alternatively, you can do something to help someone in need, in Keith’s name. The Noyes family would like extend special thanks to Maine General Hospice for their kindness & special care.
Arrangements under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.
