Noel E. Carstens' Obituary
Noel Carstens, 87, of Lakewood, Washington, passed away on December 7, 2025. Born on Christmas Eve in Argyle, Minnesota, to Edward and Lorrayne Carstens, Noel was the second of four children—a quiet soul with a warm heart who grew up surrounded by family and small-town values.
After serving proudly in the U.S. Army, Noel spent 35 years as a visual merchandiser, a career that allowed his artistic eye and creative spirit to shine. He had a knack for making things look just right, whether it was a store display or a project at home. Noel went on to do similar work for Puget Sound Bank. Finally, he worked as a school bus driver for Clover Park School District until he fully retired.
In 1980, Noel married Carol, the love of his life, and together they built a home filled with laughter and love. He embraced Carol’s two daughters as his own and later welcomed a daughter together, creating a family that became his greatest joy.
Noel was a man of many talents—he could fix almost anything and loved building things with his hands. Though gardening wasn’t his favorite chore, he approached it with skill and patience, and his yard always looked beautiful. In his later years, Noel enjoyed cruising around on his scooter, tinkering with his car and riding lawn mower, and savoring family gatherings where he could quietly soak in the joy of being surrounded by those he loved.
He was gentle, kind, and soft-spoken, with a sweet nature that drew people to him. Noel was generous and would help anyone who asked without complaint. He had an artistic streak, a love for mystery novels, and a signature style—his beloved flannel shirts. Noel was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose steady presence and quiet strength made life better for everyone around him.
Noel is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carol; daughters Lisa Steen, Kim Arkell, and Sara (Joe) Easton; grandchildren Alex, Christina, Steve, Jimmy, Jessica, Aubrey, Ana, Izzy, Abby, and Logan; great-grandchildren Leland, Daxton, Draco, and Cooper; sister Vicki Drogue; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Lorrayne Carstens, and brothers John and Bob Carstens.
Noel’s life was a beautiful blend of creativity, devotion, and quiet grace. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends who will forever cherish the memories of his gentle smile and unwavering love.
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