James Edwin Noller, 87, of Traverse City, Michigan passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025. Jim was born April 5, 1938, in Marion, Indiana. A gifted trumpet player, Jim attended Indiana University before transferring to Ball State Teacher's College for his BA and Western Michigan University for his MA in Science Education.

Jim and Joanne Hays were married for more than 40 years. They shared their passions, such as playing music, boating, sailing, enjoying the outdoors, and entertaining friends with their sons, Kurt, Kent, and David.

Jim was an avid outdoorsman and especially enjoyed time on the water with his family and friends. Jim was quick to laugh and quick to make a joke. His home was open to family, friends, and to the shenanigans brought on by his sons' many friends, all of whom were welcome at their home on Old Mission Peninsula.
After teaching, Jim became a successful salesman, working in the steel, audio-visual, and real estate industries. Jim worked for more than three decades for Real Estate One in Traverse City, where he made many friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Bernice, his oldest son, Kurt, and his wife Joanne. Jim is survived by Kent (Angie) and daughter Sophia, and by David (Rachel) and daughters, Gracie (Sean Donovan) and Charlotte, and by his partner Judy Bethel.

A funeral service honoring James will take place at 10:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m., on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Dr. Gary Hogue will officiate. Burial will follow in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider and memorial donation to Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E. Traverse Hwy, #3325, Traverse City, Michigan 49684.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Jim's family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .