Edward Robert Noll

Edward Robert Noll of Topeka passed to eternal life July 1, 2016, after a heroic battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends during the last hours of his life. Edward ("Ed") was born on November 20, 1952, in Topeka, the son of Jacob and Mary (Ryan) Noll. He received his formative education from Most Pure Heart of Mary Elementary and Hayden Catholic High Schools. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Fort Hays State University and a Master of Science Degree in Education Administration from the University of Kansas. His higher education also included doctoral studies at the University of Kansas, with certification for Gifted/Talented and Advanced Placement. His teaching credentials comprise certification in English, Speech, Debate, Forensics, Theatre Arts, Physical Education, Psychology, and Building Administration. His professional career included both administrative and teaching service in parochial and public schools at levels Pre-K through 12. These schools include those in The Toledo, Ohio Public Schools; the Archdiocese of Kansas City, KS; the Archdiocese of Chicago, IL; the Houston Independent School District, Houston, TX; the Fort Bend Independent School District, Houston, TX; and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, TX. Always a servant of God, Ed shared his gifts to better the world and inspire others, especially the children and youth he served. Some of his many accomplishments include being named "Teacher of the Year" in several school districts, guest speaker at the NCEA (National Catholic Education Association) Convention, and "Most Outstanding Debate Coach" for two consecutive years in the Fort Bend Independent School District. Ed also led and developed debate teams that reached state and national competitions, served on the North Central Association of Accreditation for Secondary Schools, and developed and sponsored many student programs and extra-curricular activities that elevated school spirit and involvement. In his personal life, he loved sports, music, politics, and dogs. He was a dedicated KU basketball fan. Even more, he was a loyal Hayden Wildcat, managing to travel and attend almost every Hayden basketball state tournament. He was an intelligent and informed humanitarian, always an advocate for those less fortunate. He was a peacemaker. Ed was preceded in death by his parents. He was also preceded in death by a beloved family friend, Reverend Father Edward N. Doherty, for whom Ed was named. He is survived by a brother, Dennis Noll (Ellen), Meriden; a sister, Mary Patricia Noll, Topeka; nieces, Holly Noll (Michael Hockenberger) and Sarah Robitzsch; nephew, Shawn Noll; aunt, Gwen Ryan; friend, Carolyn Kaberline; and his Boston Terrier, Sebastian Windsor (who will be adopted by his sister). He also is survived by many cousins, friends, and colleagues. Ed was a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 6 from 5-7 PM at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home with a parish rosary at the end of the visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church on Thursday, July 7 at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Most Pure Heart of Mary School or Hayden Catholic High School.

Edward Robert Noll

November 20, 1952 - July 1, 2016