John J. Novak

John Joseph Novak, 88, of Conemaugh, fell asleep in the Lord peacefully on April 30, 2022 at home surrounded by his loving family. John was born on June 10, 1933, to John and Mary (Pavlik) Novak in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. John is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Julia (Kovalchik). John and Julia were blessed with two caring and loving daughters, Christina Novak and Tamara Faight (John). Beloved grandfather to two grandsons who were like sons to him, Justin Novak (Lisa) and Ian Faight. John's greatest honor was the title of 'Pap' to his four great- grandsons: Samuel, Vincent, Mark and Lucas Novak. He is also survived by sister-in-laws: Kathi Novak, Pauline Kovalchik, Reba Kovalchik, Catherine Kovalchik; brother-in-law John Kovalchik; cousins Frank Thomas, Marie Smith (David) and Cindy Sebes; Godson, Michael Kovalchik; and various nieces and nephews who he cared for deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary (Pavlik) Novak; brothers William and Joseph Novak; sisters Helen Yuhas (Robert), Margaret Rzasa (Fred); brother-in-laws Charles Kovalchik, Lewis Kovalchik and Samuel Mastovich; sister-in-laws Mary Kovalchik, Pearl Mastovich, Eva Miller, Justine Herczegh, Olga Kovalchik; nephew George Mastovich; cousins Dolores Thomas and Joseph Sebes. John was a humble veteran of the Korean War where he honorably served his country as a Military Policeman. John was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal and Rifle Marksmanship Badge. John had numerous skills and did all kinds of handiwork but his favorite was construction. Construction work allowed him to share his God given talents with others through working with his hands. Whether it was using lumber or river stone, John took great pride in his work - especially when it came to remodeling his daughters' homes over the years. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching Penn State, Steelers and Pirates games. He also enjoyed road trips with his family, golfing, fishing and horse racing. John enjoyed sharing his love of the WWF with his grandsons. He was also an avid gardener who loved tending to his annual vegetable garden. John's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the following for all their prayers, love and support: Father George Johnson and Matushka Faith, friends from church and dear family friends, Lillian Fulton, Barbara and Fred Oliveros, Mike Slavich, Patti Glowa, and Susie Tyno; His kind and caring new friends at the VA and Conemaugh Home Health, especially his aids Kaitlin and Stacey and nurse Tonya. You always put a smile on his face and made his days a lot easier. We hope that you always remember his 'wink'; Emery, Robin, Pete and neighbors for all your assistance; Doctors Sirsikar, Lanciano, Frem, Oberneder, and Brozetti and Christy James, CRNP for the great medical care provided to John over the years; The ambulance crew for their kindness and great care. John was a faithful Orthodox Christian and member of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Conemaugh. Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen! May His Memory be Eternal and the perpetual light shine upon him. John 'Pap' Novak will be forever loved and missed by his family and friends. Friends received 3-6 PM Friday at Henderson-Makuchan Funeral Home, 434 First St., Conemaugh. Funeral service will begin Saturday at 8:45 AM at the funeral home, and continue immediately in St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church with the Very Reverend Arch-priest George Johnson officiating. Interment will follow at St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church Cemetery, with military rite conducted by Chas. Menoher Post 155 VFW Ritual Team. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Conemaugh, in memory of John Novak.

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