Melbourne Noel Jr., 81, died on Dec. 6, 2025. He was born on Christmas Eve, 1943, as the carolers were singing “Noel, Noel” — an event that made headlines, setting the tone for a life defined by curiosity, justice, and joy.
From St. Catherine’s Elementary to the bustling halls of Fenwick High School, he emerged as a committed member of the debate team. He exhibited a fierce wit and sharp mind at the University of Notre Dame, where his voice reached the masses as a reporter at a local radio station and in print at The Scholastic. His trenchant column, “Mel Noel … The Last Word,” became a staple for readers eager for his candid take on the issues of the day. He pursued legal studies at Northwestern Law School, paving the way for an illustrious career that led to head of the Criminal Justice Division at the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. He argued before the Supreme Court on two occasions, a testament to both his legal acumen and an unshakable belief in justice. As a senior staff attorney at the National Acquisition Center of the Department of Veterans Affairs, he played a key role in helping the VA administer the law that mandates manufacturers to offer discounted wholesale prices on patented medications to the VA, Department of Defense, Public Health Service/Indian Health Service, and the Coast Guard. His spirited efforts were recognized with a Lifetime Excellence Award from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
His runs for Circuit Court Judge in Cook County and the Oak Park Village Board preceded his service on several Oak Park community boards, including influential roles on the Liquor Control Board and the Fire and Police Commission. He served as president of the Symphony of Oak Park-River Forest and tirelessly raised funds for the Huskie Booster Club to uplift the arts.
He joyfully served as the family’s travel agent, impromptu legal advisor, and ever-patient editor. His home rang with music, his fingers always ready for the family piano, his voice recalling the whimsical songs of Hans Christian Andersen.
His passion for trains inspired him to create a detailed model railway, complete with a Santa Fe engine winding through tiny towns and mountains. In the kitchen, he became known for his exceptional pumpkin pies, a highlight of every family celebration.
Mel’s unwavering moral compass, set an example for his family and the Oak Park community at large. He leaves behind his wife, Sandy; his daughters Emma, Anna, Melissa, and Rebecca; and his grandchildren, Callum, Isabel, and Bronson, whose lives he enriched with his wisdom, humor, and boundless affection.
A celebration of life will be held at Rustico restaurant in Oak Park at 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 20. All who knew Mel are invited to share their memories of a truly extraordinary life.
