On February 6, 2014, Roland F. Noel, Sr. went home to be with our Holy Father.Roland was born in Philadelphia, PA. to Zack and Nellie Noel on December 18, 1930. Shortly after Roland's birth, the family moved to Lynchburg, VA., where they raised their only child to be a strong, responsible, respectful and caring gentleman. After graduating from Dunbar High School in 1948, he attended Howard University in Washington DC., receiving his Bachelor's degree. He immediately joined the USAF upon graduation, and traveled the world defending our country.Roland met his wife, Doreatha, in elementary school, and knew she would be his life's partner. They married on February 4, 1952. Wanting a large family, Roland and Doreatha brought six children into this world. Their children were raised without the benefit of extended family due to the constant moving a career in the Air Force brought to them. Roland wouldn't have had it any other way. After being stationed at NORAD in Colorado Springs, Roland and Doreatha found the city to be the perfect place to finish raising their children. He retired on December 1, 1973 in Colorado Springs after serving in Vietnam and being stationed at FE Warren AFB in Cheyenne, WY.Roland was not done yet. He worked in management at Sears, Roebuck & Co. for another twenty years. After his second retirement, he became politically active to ensure his family had the future he dreamed of.Roland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doreatha, daughter Laura, and son Steven. He is survived by his son Roland (Rick) Jr., daughters Alpha and Janice, son Lawrence (Rebecca), grandchildren Anthony, Jason, Tarryn (Nicholas), Zachary, Nathan and Brandon, his great grandchild and apple of his eye DeShawn, and several relatives in both Maryland and Virginia.

Roland will be remembered for his giving heart, great advice, and showing his loved ones and friends that the complicated roads of life always lead back to happiness and satisfaction. Because of his outlook on life, his family will always know we are going to be able to go forward as he would have wanted.

Viewing will be held at Holy Apostles Catholic Church, 4925 N. Carefree Cir., on Thursday, February 13th, from 9:00am to 9:45am, with the funeral service starting at 10:00am. A reception immediately follows the service. A private burial service will be held at Ft. Logan National Cemetery in Denver. Flowers can be sent to Evergreen Funeral Home, 1830 E. Fountain Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO. 80910.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roland F. Noel Sr., please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.