Noel would like you to know that his work here is done. He received a call, a sort of an offer you can't refuse, for an appointment from which he will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus, a reunion with family and friends he's not seen in a long time. Job security is exactly 110 percent. His new mission takes him to a wonderful place where he will be camping, fishing and reading to his heart's content. Music, laughter and love are guaranteed. Food is delicious, and you never gain an ounce. He left detailed instructions for his wife and children to celebrate his mission here, which has now been completed. Low adherence to these instructions will not be tolerated.
We want to let him know that he did a great job, and wish him a safe journey. We will forever remember his smile, his warmth, his energy, and his love for life, family and friends. He worked very hard all his life. He made a difference in the lives of many.
Noel was born in Riverside, Calif., to Noel O. McElhany and Constance M. McElhany. He spent his early years in California and Oklahoma.
In 1955 the family moved to Nevada, where they were partners in the Deer Creek Ranch, on the west side of the Jackson Mountains. This is where his love for "Buckarooing" began.
In 1958 at the age of 19, he joined the Air Force and was stationed in Altus, Okla., and Goose Bay, Labrador. He served for four years.
He returned to Nevada in 1962. This was home to long ropes, mustangs, and wide open spaces. He loved to chase wild mustangs, and always wanted to see what was on the other side of just one more mountain. He worked for Great Western Land & Cattle Company. They ran 1200 head of cattle on Clear Creek Ranch, Dolly Hayden and the Sweeney Ranch.
In 1966, he joined the Nevada Highway Patrol and worked in Carson City and Lake Tahoe. His law enforcement career included the Lander County Sheriff's Office, Winnemucca Police Department, and Humboldt County Sheriff's Office -where he was undersheriff.
Later he worked for Feed Service as a unit manager. This was an agricultural company, so he was very busy in the spring, summer and fall, and trapped bobcats and coyotes in the winter months.
Noel met the "Love of his Life"- Elaine, in May of 1986. They both worked for Feed Service - Noel in Orovada and Elaine in Caldwell, Idaho. Six weeks later they were married. They were soul mates and best friends. On July 3, 2014, they celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary. Together they have created many happy memories.
From 1990 until 2003 Noel managed Inland Supply, where he was blessed to have met some very special people, and developed some long lasting friendships.
He drove truck for TransSystems - hauling ore to and from various mine sites, and retired in 2007.
Noel is survived by his wife Elaine; his son Rob (Linda) McElhany Burton from Oceanside, Calif.; his son Marc (Tammy) McLean; and his son Michael McLean, all from Winnemucca; his daughter Therese McElhany; and son Clay McElhany, both of Carson City.
His grandchildren include Fiona and Stewart McElhany and Devin and Jaden Burton.
He is also survived by his sister Joy Bartlett of Carson City; her children include Lorrie Brownell, Mitchell Brownell and Lacey Ridings.
Noel's dog Lucky, remains behind as well.
The family would like to thank Dr. Suresh Reddy, Liz Kang and the staff of Reno Oncology for their care and support. Thanks also go to Sherry Smith and Cindy Michael of Humboldt Volunteer Hospice. And a special thanks to Michael Cogsdill of Humboldt General EMS, and to Cheryl Buckman, Minerva Anderson and Angie Alvarez.
To all who touched his heart and were a "Ray of Sunshine" in his life, we will be forever grateful.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life which will be held Friday, Aug. 1, 2014, at Sonoma Funeral Home in Winnemucca at 11 a.m.
Donations may be made to Humboldt Volunteer Hospice in lieu of flowers for the wonderful service they provide.[[In-content Ad]]
