North Reading's Joe Noonan Passes Away

An obituary from the Croswell Funeral Home:

Joe Noonan (lovingly called “Sunny” or “Banana Joe” by his family), 86, of North Reading and formerly of Malden, died late Tuesday, Jan. 29th, surrounded by his 5 children, and the love of his life, wife of 66 years Mary Jo (Leneski) Noonan.

Forever an optimist and always in search of his next project, Joe found his first love in Mary at age 12 when they were introduced by his sister. He found his second love at age 21, when he joined Painters District Council 35, and began his work with H. Newton Marshall Painting Inc., eventually buying out the company after 33 years in service and carrying it through to its 100th anniversary.

He loved his work so much, he always said, “he never worked a day in his life.”

He went on to be involved in the commercial painting of countless iconic Boston colleges, hospitals, and skyscrapers. He once painted Dave Maynard’s car by accident, earning him a mention on Maynard’s radio show that morning. Around age 50 he pursued one of his greatest passions, flying, and took up lessons in a Cessna Aircraft, achieving a solo flight, that was flown over his home in North Reading. Needless to say, his favorite part of vacationing became the plane ride. He and Mary also enjoyed many years of square-dancing, dancing their way across the country including being part of the largest square-dance under the Astro Dome.

In addition to his myriad of life accomplishments — a veteran of the Korean Conflict and an excellent Bingo player in later years, Joe enjoyed tending to his tomato garden, fixing up his backhoe, and a great cup of black coffee.

Joe impacted the lives of all those around him, not the least of which include his 5 children, Fred Noonan and wife Diane of Florida, Neal Noonan of Florida, Doug Noonan and wife Trisha of Virginia, Judi Poirier and husband David of Massachusetts, and Caryn Noonan of New Hampshire; as well as 14 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, 1 great great granddaughter, 2 grand dogs and 2 great grand dogs who really loved getting scratches from their Grandpie. He was loved so much and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

His funeral service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 11:30 a.m. at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com.