Robert Noll

Robert Ludwig “Bob” Noll, a dedicated educator, world traveler, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of service, laughter, and lifelong learning.

Born in Brooklyn, NY in 1937 to German immigrant parents Hedwig and Ludwig Noll, Bob grew up loving the Brooklyn Dodgers-though he famously never forgave them for moving to Los Angeles in 1959. In 1944, his family moved to York, PA, where he grew up. He was a member of the wrestling team and graduated from William Penn High School in 1955. He continued his wrestling career while studying elementary education at Millersville State Teachers College, graduating in 1959. Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Army at Fort Dix while balancing his early days of teaching in York. His family heritage and adventurous spirit then led him abroad from 1961 to 1965, teaching 6th grade for U.S. Army dependents in Karlsruhe, Germany, where he also coached the Karlsruhe Knights wrestling team. It was during this European chapter that he met the love of his life, Mary Keefe. In 1963 they were wed in Mary’s hometown of Stoughton, MA. Back teaching in Germany, they welcomed their first son, Rob in 1964. Upon returning to the States in 1965, Bob continued his academic pursuits at Penn State University, earning a Master's in School Psychology in 1966. Soon thereafter, Bob and Mary welcomed their second son, Chuck. Ultimately, Bob earned a Doctorate in Educational Administration from PSU in 1976. He dedicated his professional life to advocating for children, serving with distinction as a School Psychologist and Director of Special Education Services for the State College Area School District.

Outside his profession, Bob was an avid Penn State fan and multiple sport season ticket holder. His dedication to Nittany Lion athletics was highlighted by his time serving on the board of the Penn State Wrestling Club. For many years, he meticulously organized group tours for PSU fans to attend away meets and tournaments and together with Mary, established a thriving sportswear sales program which over the years has raised significant funds in support of PSU Wrestling programs. Bob and Mary were also avid volunteers, delivering Meals on Wheels throughout the State College community. Bob embraced the joy of retirement and with Mary, traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and around the world. Throughout the years, Bob maintained relationships with his many relatives in Germany. It was a moment of great pride for him to connect his grown children and grandchildren to those German relatives and their descendants. Bob was happiest basking in the winter sun in Bradenton, FL, and summertime trips to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, where he enjoyed cycling and kayaking. His warmth, wisdom, and playful sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bob is survived by Mary, his loving wife of 62 years; his sons Rob and Chuck; their wives Leslie and Jenny; three amazing grandsons, Gus, Kase, and Ellis; a brother, Herbert, his wife Betsy; and his many beloved nieces and nephews, on both the Noll and Keefe sides.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Foxdale Village, 500 E. Marylyn Ave, State College, on August 1st, at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Foxdale Resident’s Association, 500 E. Marylyn Avenue, State College, PA 16801