Remembering a Special Friend...

It is no secret that Marv Noelken left a lasting impact on the many lives he touched over the years. Marv was regarded as family by a large circle of friends, neighbors, and certainly by the Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis team. Marv had been a generous supporter and selfless volunteer for HFHSL since 1999. Deeply committed to HFHSL's mission, Marv was a member of our regular Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Crews. He served as both Crew Leader and House Leader and was a passionate member of HFHSL's Construction Committee.

Marv's dedication to the task at hand was second to none. On the build site, he was always willing to lend a hand where one was needed, work just one more day, or volunteer to take leadership yet another house - whatever was required to get the job done. In 2010, Marv was the winner of Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis' Joe F. Castagno Construction Leadership Award. Recipients of this award are chosen based upon leadership skills, site management, mentorship, dedication to the role and organization, and on being an Ambassador for Habitat. Marv was a clear choice in all of these areas.

After losing his dear wife Rose, Marv sponsored a full-house build in her name. He poured himself into the project, which according to his children "did wonders for him after he lost the love of his life." "Rose's House" was dedicated in 2005.

This year, Marv's family and friends are partnering with Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis to pay tribute to his memory through a full house sponsorship in his honor. Construction of Marv's House will begin this fall. Contributions to this special project are currently being accepted. Marv's family will generously match donations to Marv's House, dollar for dollar.

Marv was a great many things to Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis over the years. He was an outstanding individual, but above all, he was a great friend, and a true member of our Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis family. Of his time with HFHSL, a friend has said "Habitat has been so important to Marv. He loved the work, the team members, and the results." Thank you, Marv. We loved you too.

Thank you, Dear Friend, for 11 years of helping to make HFHSL's mission a reality. It was our privilege to know you, and to work along side you. You will be missed.