He was born on December 25, 1939, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Robert Frank and Mary Franklin Noel. At the age of 13, his family moved to Chandler, Arizona. There, Bob graduated from Chandler High School and developed his love for baseball, particularly pitching. He holds the record for the school’s only perfect game. During high school, he met his lifelong friend, Jerry Lamb, who was instrumental in Bobby’s baptism in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Bob continued his baseball career at Brigham Young University (1957-1961) and pitched the only perfect game in BYU baseball history, bringing his career total to two perfect games. He then faithfully served a mission in the Central Atlantic States Mission (1961-1963).

After his mission, Bob completed a Physical Education degree at BYU (1964) and later earned an MS degree in Athletic Administration and Recreation Management (1985). He was a devoted lifelong “True Blue” fan. At BYU, he met his beloved bride of 61 years, Darlene Hatch of Madera, California.

Bob devoted his life to teaching and coaching. He shaped the lives of athletes at Chandler High School (1965-1979) and later taught and coached at BYU (1979-2008). After retirement, he continued sharing his love of the game by volunteering with Orem High School baseball and giving pitching lessons whenever asked.

As a coach and mentor, Bob influenced hundreds of students and athletes. His impact helped youth develop character, discipline, confidence, and faith. He was gifted in seeing the potential in others and helping them believe in themselves.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Noel, and his siblings, Kaye Noel Barnett and Kenneth Noel.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene, and their five children: Robert Bradley (Paula) Noel, Lisa (Paul) Bruno, Stan (Amber) Noel, Dawnese (Scott) Openshaw, and David Brent Noel (Kris Klein). He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many beloved bonus grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Missionary Fund at philanthropies.churchofjesuschrist.org or the Sons of Baseball Foundation at sonsofbaseballfoundation.org.

Information on Services available at:

https://www.utahvalleyfuneral.com/obituaries