Glennys Leurean Noakes

Glennys Leurean Noakes passed away peacefully at her home in Spirit Lake, Iowa on June 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Mason City, Iowa on January 25, 1942, to her proud parents George Zerfass and Florence Howard.

Glennys faced a courageous battle with lung cancer, and her strength and resilience throughout her illness inspired all who knew her. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother who touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion.

In her lifetime, Glennys was married twice. She married Henry Melby on August 5, 1961, in Canby, Minnesota, and although they later divorced in 1975, their bond remained strong. She then found love again and remarried Dale Noakes in 1982 until his passing in October 1985.

Glennys was a dedicated member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Canby, Minnesota, where she found solace and community. She had a successful career in banking and was known for her hard work and dedication to her profession. She valued education, obtained her high school diploma, and pursued some college courses.

She had many interests and hobbies outside of work that brought her joy. She cherished her memories of living in Mitchell, South Dakota, and Sheldon, Iowa, during her youth. One of her favorite pastimes was traveling on the Milwaukee Railroad in the summer with her father, creating unforgettable experiences together.

Glennys had a playful spirit and enjoyed playing games like Phase 10 and Yahtzee. She had a passion for solving mysteries and watching murder shows, always intrigued by the complexities of human nature. Above all, she treasured spending quality time with her family, creating lasting memories, and strengthening the bonds that held them together.

Glennys was a loving mother to Sherri (Kelly) Stroud, Teresa Stuedemann, Sandy (Milton) Consoer, and Henry Melby Jr.  Her memory will be cherished by her 17 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love and strength.

Glennys was preceded in death by her husbands, Dale Noakes and Henry Melby, daughter Brenda Gilbertson, granddaughter Angela Lambert, great-granddaughter Annabelle Stuedemann, three great-grandsons, and son-in-law William Leech. She leaves a legacy of cherished memories and a family who will forever hold her close to their hearts.

A special message of gratitude is extended to Lake Regional Hospice and Turner Jenness Funeral Home for their compassionate care and support during and after her final days.

A funeral service to celebrate Glennys's life will be held at Turner Jenness Funeral Home on Hill Avenue in Spirit Lake, Iowa, on June 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM.

Glennys Leurean Noakes will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her spirit and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal love of her family and friends.