Joseph Steven Novak, 91, born on Sept. 14, 1921 in Hopelawn, N.J., passed away peacefully Monday, March 18, 2013 near his home in Fairhope.
After graduating from Woodbridge (N.J.) High School in 1939, he served as an ensign in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following the Navy he graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill., with a bachelor of science in chemistry. He went on to work for Chevron Corporation in Perth Amboy, N.J., San Francisco, and Pascagoula, Miss., where he eventually retired in 1980.
“Uncle Yoke” to his adoring nieces and nephews, he was never happier than when he was attending one of their ball games or hearing about their latest accomplishments.
He was a uniquely wonderful, loving and generous man and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, John; mother, Katherine; sister, Margaret Onuska, and brothers Frank, John and Andrew. Surivivors include nieces, Rose (Bob) Meszaros, Kathleen Novak, Judi Clark and Mary (Dave) Paradis; nephews, Michael (Cathy) Onuska, Joseph (Debbie) Onuska, Frank (Irene) Novak, Michael (Valerie) Novak, Richard (Cheryl Covino) Novak, John (Donna) Novak, Kenny (Debbie) Novak and Steve (Tracey) Novak; many great nieces and nephews.
Visitation begins at 10 a.m. with Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Fairhope. Interment will follow at Belforest Catholic Cemetery.
The family requests memorial donations be made to St. Lawrence Catholic Church.
Arrangements are by Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., Fairhope. Online condolences may be made at www.wolfefuneralhomes.com.
