Alice Louise Noakes

Alice Louise Noakes of Wichita, KS, passed away on June 1, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in August 1933 in Lusk, WY, to Fred and Mary Dieckman, Alice grew up on her family’s ranch near Keeline as the eldest of five, enjoying a carefree childhood. She called herself the “mischievous leader of the pack,” riding calves and playing with animals like coyote pups and newborn lambs. She deeply loved her family and treasured evenings filled with her father’s music and homemade fudge.

In 1946, she moved to Augusta, KS, to live with her Aunt Minnie, where she enjoyed school—especially history—and stayed active in social events. She later attended high school in Howard, KS, where she met her future first kiss and husband, Richard Noakes. They married in 1953 and remained together until his death in 2015.

Alice and Richard were devoted parents to their two children, Julie and Brad, whom she loved deeply and wholeheartedly. She enjoyed singing, reading, and sharing family adventures with them. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially bird watching—a passion she shared with her son in later years.

Alice deeply loved her five grandchildren—Leah Marie, Teresa, Adam, Tobi, and Ian—taking pride in each of their unique paths and accomplishments, and lovingly raising Teresa and Tobi, with whom she shared a special and enduring bond.

While family was at the heart of Alice’s life, she also built a long career in accounting and finance, including 31 years at Coleman before retiring in 1994. In both her work and her home life, her deep faith guided her. She was devoted to her faith throughout her life, actively attending church from her youth and as a longtime member of Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church with Richard. She lived by the purpose of “glorifying God and enjoying Him forever.”

 A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Presbyterian Manor Chapel.

Alice is preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and her daughter, Julie Noakes. She is survived by her son, Brad (Winnie) Noakes, and her grandchildren, Leah Marie (Adam) Jilka, Teresa Tenbrink, Adam (Bryan) Noakes, Tobi (A.J.) La Voie, and Ian Noakes.

A memorial has been established with the Kansas Humane Society, 3313 North Hillside St., Wichita, KS 67219.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Arranged through Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.