Roger Noecker

Roger Dale Noecker, age 73 years of Niles, Michigan; father, brother, National-Standard retiree; fan of sports, fast cars, and eating died peacefully at 11:42 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026 with his family gathered at his bedside at West Woods of Niles, following an extended illness. Roger had a great appreciation for the kind and compassionate care provided by the staff of West Woods, and for the fellowship of the patient community throughout his daily tours of the halls and community rooms.

He was born on January 10, 1953 in Niles to Fred R. and Doris M. (Watson) Noecker, and was graduated from Niles High School. In his youth, he played baseball at Thomas Stadium, and had some success as a pitcher. He was employed at the former Niles plant of National-Standard as a production scheduler, retiring after 42 years of service. He has lived in Niles all of his life.

Roger was a hard worker, loyal to his employer, and took every available hour of overtime, but when away from work he bowled on area leagues, and enjoyed driving fast cars including a Dodge Charger and a Dodge Challenger. Perhaps because of that interest – or to atone for some clandestine speed - he volunteered with the former Niles Township Police Department. He was a longtime fan of the Detroit Tigers baseball team, the Detroit Lions football team, and college football at the University of Notre Dame.

Roger was very social, enjoying being with people, especially at events that included food. Family gatherings for Thanksgiving were a favorite, and after a full meal, he and his brother were careful to offer a piece of lemon pie to other guests . . . before each consumed an entire pie! He seemed to have an extraordinary metabolism that allowed him to eat while remaining trim. He was even known to arrive early for cookouts, so that he might indulge his taste for a bit of hamburger . . . before it was grilled.

In retirement, he enjoyed the fellowship of the crowds at the Four Winds Casino, and enjoyed winning. At West Woods, he was a friend to everyone in the building, both fellow residents and members of the staff, who could always direct visitors to Roger’s last known location.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, and by his sister, Barbara Evans on November 22, 2025, his brother, Harry Noecker on January 27, 2018, and by a stillborn sister, Betty Lou Noecker.

Surviving family includes his son, Adam (& R.J.Silva) Noecker of Chicago, Illinois; a sister-in-law, Janice Noeccker of Niles; and a brother-in-law, Bill Evans of Niles; and several nieces and nephews, including Anita (& Orrin) Belcher, who provided his care.

The family of Roger Noecker will gather privately for Committal Services at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens. Arrangements were made at the Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home, 615 East Main Street in Niles. Memories and condolences may be left online at:

www.halbritterwickens.com

Roger clearly enjoyed life, choosing to work hard, to play hard at sports, and to cheer for others playing. He enjoyed eating more than most, and learned that he enjoyed winning at gambling. But his greatest joy was his relationship with those around him wherever he was at, especially his family.