Erma Noll

NOLL, ERMA L. WHITMOREDied June 29, 2012 at the age of 84. She was a wonderful gracious woman; a pleasure to be around. She was a beloved wife and mother. She was born in Newton, Kansas and grew up close by in Potwin, Kansas. She attended college at Kansas State University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Home Economics and met her husband, Harry Noll. They were married the summer after she graduated and between his junior and senior year, after her husband graduated the following year, she traveled the country for the next 27 years as an Air Force wife. Six of those years were in Albuquerque on two different occasions, 1957 to 1959 at Manzano Base and 1964 to 1968 at Sandia Base. During her first visit she was also at Sandia Base because no one could mention Manzano Base at that time. She was an outstanding cook and accomplished seamstress; she made most of the clothing worn by her and her two daughters during their early years. She was an accomplished and resourceful homemaker and accomplished manager during her husband absence on two occasions for six months each. She was a partner, parent and compassionate friend for over 60 years. She and her husband have resided in Albuquerque since January 1978. She was active in Christ United Methodist Church Women's and Youth activities during her first two visits. She was also a bowler, square dancer and avid bridge player. The family purchased the first of their three travel trailers in Albuquerque and proceeded up the Alaskan highways to their next assignment to Elmendorf AFB, in 1968. This qualified as an overseas assignment and was the only such assignment she was able to accompany her husband. When they returned to Albuquerque ten years later, she was active in the Thunderbirds Travel Club. She was also active in St. Paul's United Methodist Church Women's Organization and coordinated the church weddings for a number of years. She thoroughly enjoyed that experience. Her daughter, Jean preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband of over 60 years, Harry; daughter, Diann Zentner and husband, Larry of Albuquerque; a grandson, Jonathan, an Air Force captain, stationed at Hurlburt Field, Florida. She is also survived by a second grandson, Jason who with his wife, Emma, resides in England. Her brother, Joe in Dallas, TX with two children from his first wife, Joyce Ann Mercado and Fred Whitmore and five grandchildren. She is also survived by an extended family in Dallas from Joe's second wife, Betty. In her later years she became an avid reader. Toward the end, despite her many health problems, she maintained her kind and gentle way with everyone. Her life was a blessing. A Memorial Service will be held 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at St. John's United Methodist, 2626 Arizona St. NE. A reception will follow the service at the church. Please visit our online guest book for Erma at Lomas Blvd NE505-275-3500