Peter Novak

TRAVERSE CITY — Peter Novak, 92, of Traverse City, passed away Wednesday, April 13, 2011, at Munson Medical Center with his loving family by his side.Peter was born July 11, 1918, in Maple City to the late Peter and Eva (Rosinski) Novak. On Sept. 28, 1946, he married Mary Helen Schettek at St. Rita's Church in Maple City.He was a devoted member of St. Francis Church for 64 years. Peter retired from Munson Medical Center after working many years in the Engineering Department.Peter is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary; his children Daniel (Luci), of Lafayette, Ind., Gary (Gayle), of Tustin Calif., John, of Huntington Beach, Calif., Mark (Barb), of Traverse City, and Loren (Shannon), of Lafayette, Ind.; five grandchildren (Scott, Troy, Michael, Natalie and Nathan); two great-grandchildren (KC and Leah); one great-great-grandchild (Paige); and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving is his sister Elizabeth Mikowski, of Brighton, and brother, Clarence (Mary) Novak, of Livonia. He was preceded in death by a son, Duane; two brothers, Dormand Novak; infant brother Edward Novak; and a sister, Orpha Deering.Peter served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He received numerous military medals including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged in 1944 as a decorated war hero. He was a lifetime member of D.A.V.Peter was a loving, caring spouse and father who had a great sense of humor. His amazing resourcefulness was apparent in his ability to build or repair anything. He liked spending time with family and friends. Peter enjoyed gardening and sharing the abundance with his family and friends. Other hobbies and interests included hunting, playing cards and watching various Michigan sport teams, especially the Detroit Tigers.Visitation for family and friends will be at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 19, from 5 to 7 p.m., with the Rosary immediately following. In addition, on Wednesday, April 20, there will be a viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. at St. Francis Church and followed by a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. A luncheon will be held immediately following the Mass at the family center at the church. The burial will take place at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens after the luncheon.The family is very thankful for the thoughtful and loving care given to Peter by the doctors and nurses at Munson and the Dialysis Center.In remembrance, memorials may be directed to St. Francis Church, Munson Medical Center or the Father Fred Foundation.Kindly share your condolences and memories with the family at their online guest book at Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com.