Wesley Noyes

Wesley Noyes, 83 of Stillwater, passed away December 18, 2025 from injuries sustained in a car accident.

Born in Seattle, Wes and his family moved from St. Paul to Stillwater after WWII. He lived a life devoted to family, friends, community, fishing, and building/rebuilding in his shop. He loved the outdoors, the St. Croix River, the area lakes, and his years as a steadfast, all-season fisherman. While attending trade school in the 60s, he caught the eye of Janet Samuel of Hudson. They married and began a family. Wes and Jan enjoyed a supportive and loving marriage until Jan’s passing in 2020.

Wes was a lifelong learner, licensed Journeyman, industrial machinist, and ace with all things machine or mechanical. He never met a motor or piece of equipment he didn’t fix or dismantle and rebuild. After apprenticeship, he established himself in manufacturing for industrial machine repair.

He was at ease with complexity. His career included a role in the Honeywell shop that built stabilization systems for the Apollo 11 moon landing. During the 70’s oil crash when jobs evaporated, he set up a VW repair shop at home. He eventually went on to work for National Can, where he retired. His diligence earned him a patent, and a reputation at the can plant as the “go-to” to get things back up and running. Wes was practical. He believed in workers’ rights and the strength of the collective. He believed everyone had to do their part, and he was a member of the Steel Workers’ Union for decades.

Wes had a curious mind, dry wit, helpful attitude, and he shared ideas and solutions with friends, family, and neighbors. In retirement and after Janet’s death, he turned full time to things that brought him joy - ice fishing, lake fishing, fishing club, friends, fishing shows, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, more fishing. Wesley’s sense of humor and indomitable personality will be remembered and missed by those who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Janet. He is survived by his children, Theresa and Donavon Noyes, son-in-law Octavio Trei Saenz; sister, Carol; brothers, Ken and Eric; nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

A celebration of Wesley’s life will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026, 1:30 P.M. at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater with visitation one hour prior to the service.

If you wish to donate, the family requests dedicating a tree planting.