George W. Novak

George W. Novak, 92 Loving Father, Grandfather, Brother and Friend

George W. Novak, 92 of Rockford, died on Thursday, March 13, 2008 at OSF St. Anthony at 6:39 p.m. after suffering a stroke while swimming. He was born April 3, 1915 in Wenona, IL, the son of Stanley and Anna (Warman) Novak. He attended Kent and Roosevelt schools and graduated from Central High School. Married his loving wife Lois Peterson on July 31, 1937, in the Cathedral of St. Peter. Worked for Ingersoll and Woodward Governor from which he retired after 39 years of faithful service. Member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church, a 3rd degree member of Knights of Columbus Muldoon Council 470, and a 4th degree member of the General Assembly 190, served in the Civilian Conservation Corps and was an active member at the Dolphins Swimming Club. He was an avid gardener who enjoyed planting tomatoes and a variety of flowers, was a master saw sharpener and was a wonderful and active swimmer. Survivors include his children, Karen (Jack) St. John and Rita (Peter) DiVenti, both of Rockford, William J. (Joyce) Novak of Chesapeake, VA, Jean (Robert) Mantello and Michael R. (Rebecca) Novak, both of Rockford, and Mary D. (Richard) Worthley of Oceanside, NY; 18 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; sister, Leona Gillette and brother, Arthur Novak both of Rockford and special friends, Jack and Elaine Grygiel. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, George S. (Barbara) Novak, grandson, Daniel Arnold; wife Lois on Dec. 14, 2005, siblings; Margaret Miles, Anne Baker, Martha Wilinski, James Novak, John Novak and Raymond Novak. Funeral Mass Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, with Rev. Kenneth Stachyra officiating. Interment in St. Mary/St. James Cemetery. Visitation Tuesday, March 18, from 4:30-7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel 3910 N. Rockton Ave. with a rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Wednesday in the Parish Hall from 9-9:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers please make memorials in his name to St. Judes Research Hospital or Knights of Columbus 470 Council Building Fund. Extend condolences online at: www.fitzgeraldfh.com