Brett L. Van Noort, 51 of Akron, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 23, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Akron, Iowa. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Akron. Visitation with the family present will begin at 4:00 p.m., with a Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m., all on Wednesday April 22, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Akron. Arrangements are with Rexwinkel Funeral Home of Akron. Expressions of sympathy may be expressed to the family through www.rexwinkelfh.com.

Brett Lee Van Noort was born on January 18, 1975 in Hawarden, Iowa to Gerrit 'Smokey' Jr and Sharon (Hedden) Van Noort. He was raised in Hawarden, attending school in Hawarden and Sioux Center.

Brett's work history primarily included truck driving; he first drove a cement truck for many years for Van Zee Enterprises in Rock Valley, IA. He then became self-employed, operating Van Noort Trucking with assistance from his father-in-law. Brett drove mainly local but did an occasional OTR route. Brett also worked with Gary and Carol Klemme assisting with rental management and maintenance on their rental properties.

Brett was united in marriage to Denise Lynn Ten Napel on November 5, 2011 and they made their home in Akron. Early into their new lives as newlyweds, they began taking classes to become certified foster parents. They received their license in September 2012 and grew their family by adopting three children.

Brett enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time outdoors. He loved riding his motorcycle; he always looked forward to his annual motorcycle trips with his oldest son, Brandon. They often rode out to the Black Hills.

Brett was a kind and generous man; he would help anyone out in any way that he could. He had a love and appreciation of 'oddities.' He had several pet spiders, enjoyed items that may be considered spooky, and was a collector of unique items, specifically blow torches. Brett enjoyed woodworking; he made many different items including urns, canes, and a sand box. Brett was gifted with a natural ability to work with his hands, whether he was wood working, doing home repairs, or working on his motorcycle.

Brett was a dedicated husband and a proud father. He loved spending time with his family and he always told his children, 'I love you too the moon and back'. He was honored and very excited to officiate his son's wedding in 2021.

Brett is survived by his wife, Denise; four children: Brandon (Danielle) Van Noort of Spirit Lake, IA, Ann Van Noort, Bruce Van Noort, and Braxton Van Noort, all still at home in Akron; his siblings: Audrey (Roger) Olson, Duane (Rebecca) Van Noort, Jeffery Van Noort, Ann (Bill) Sieler, and Teri (Theresa) Van Noort; parents in law, Dennis and Diane Ten Napel; siblings in law: David Ten Napel, Dan (Michelle) Ten Napel, and Dawn (Jason) DeRochie; many other nieces, nephews, and other extended relatives.

Brett is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Mark.