Springfield, VT – Damien Rae Noel, 73, of Springfield, VT died on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Lebanon, NH. He was born on March 30, 1951, in Windsor, VT to parents Raymond and Pauline (Hicks) Noel. He grew up in Windsor as the middle child in the family with an older and younger sister.  Damien inherited his father's love of horses and as he grew into adulthood spent cherished time in the barn with many wonderful horses through the years.

Damien was working as an advocate at the Stoughton House in Windsor when he met Laura (Howe) Riley who also began working there. He won her over and the two married in Hartland in June of 1991 and in 1998 bought the farm where he spent the rest of his life.  The house wasn't perfect, but the land and barn were perfect for the horses, so he was happy there. He was at home on his tractor taking care of the chores.  He and Laura loved having a picnic lunch and spending all day on trail rides.  As they both got older, the horses became pasture pets and they spent more time around the house with their beloved cats and dogs.

Damien is survived by his wife Laura of Springfield; two sisters Kathy Wright of Dummerston, VT and Jeri Fortier and husband James of Homosassa, FL; nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Services will be private and memorial donations are appreciated to a no kill animal shelter or animal sanctuary.