William (Willie) Albert Novak, 73, of Helena, passed away July 3, 2011. Born on April 29, 1938 to Emma and John Novak in Helena.
Willie spent his life engaging in work, family, and country. As a serviceman, he proudly spent 6 years in the U.S. Army. After serving, Willie used his occupational talents locally at Elk River Concrete Products for 5 years, as well as the ASARCO smelter in East Helena where he retired after 30 years.
Amidst his time at ASARCO and with Elk River, Willie was often found on different farms all across the Helena Valley, building on generations of agricultural history in Montana.
Despite his tireless work ethic, he always made time to take his family hunting and fishing during season. Willie was also no stranger to humor and loved practical jokes, as any member of his family can tell you.
Willie is preceded in death by his parents, John and Emma; 3 brothers, Joe, John and Mike; 1 sister, Ann Novak Colar.
Willie is survived by his wife of 49 years Francis (Hayman) Novak; his brothers, Harry and Pete; sisters, Florence, Dorothy, and Francis; sister in laws, Donna and Elaine; and his children, Jody Novak, Kurt Novak, Laura Novak, Billy Jr. (Lenniea) Novak, June (Dan) Wall, Butch (Shelly) Parmer and Barb (Dave) Lewis . Willie also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, July 8, 2011 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 650 Logan Street in Helena. Burial will be held immediately after at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery Fort Harrison. A reception will follow at the Serviceman’s Club.
The family would like to thank Dr. Paustian for everything he did for Willie.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Gail Briese-Zimmer says
Laura & Torie
So sorry to hear about your dad. My prayers are with you and your family.
Kayel Jones says
Saddened to hear of the loss of a wonderful man, neighbor, and friend. Thankful I have such fond memories and trusting he’s in a better place smiling down just waiting on the rest of us. Love you Willie and family.
Lissa Huntington says
So sorry to hear of this loss. What a wonderful man who touched all our hearts! Willie made me smile each and every time I saw him at all of our high school rodeos and barn party’s. Peace be with you all! Lissa
Mike and Lynn Miller says
Novak family,Sorry to hear of your loss. Bill was a great co-worker, mentor and friend during our “Asarco days”
Neal & Deb Lloyd says
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Priss and Bill Leslie says
Francis and Family,
We are so sorry to here about Willy. Our prays and thoughts are with you and if there is anything we can do please let us know.
Priss/Bill
Scott Laird says
It was a joy to meet Willie at Angie’s wedding, but a sorrow now that he has departed. My prayers and the prayers of the church are with all of the family. May the Lord bless you with peace. Scott Laird
Shawn & Lesley Duthie says
Just heard – our condolences and prayers…
Teresa Kennedy says
I always enjoyed my time during the summers with Uncle Bill throughout my childhood. He always had a grin on his face. He was full of fun and will be missed by all who knew him. I’m sorry that I was unable to attend his services.
Tom Tenneson says
To The Novak Family.. I enjoyed many years working with Bill and the boys at ASARCO. He was a good man and will surely be Missed. My best wishes to the family
Tom Tenneson
Tom Tenneson says
I posted an old cartoon by Tommy Bright of Bill and Bubba on the photo page for to enjoy. Best wishes.
Tracie (Brewer) Kiesel says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tracy Grove "Gehring" says
I’m so sorry to hear of bills passing. My condolences to all.
Tracy Grove
Harold L. Grove