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Janice Deter-Piscitelli
May 17, 2025
I knew Joe when we were both summer employees at City Federal in NJ. He was a wonderful friend and a great guy. He had dreams then of becoming a physician and I am happy to know he achieved those dreams and helped so many people. I was very sad to hear of his passing. May his family be blessed with their beautiful memories and may Joe rest in eternal peace.
Barbara
March 14, 2025
I was prompted to look for Dr. Novi in search of medical care and am shocked to find he is deceased. Dr. Novi was my physician and did my extensive surgery many years ago in Columbus. He was so kind and had extraordinary bedside manner. He is the only physician who ever stood next to me and held my hand as the anesthesiologist put me to sleep. He will be missed by a medical field that needs more doctors like him and by patients seeking care. "Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."
Sabeen
July 24, 2023
I have no words, I had no idea Joe passed away until I searched online for him today to pay a friendly visit while in town. I used to work with Joe as one of his reps over a decade ago. He was one of my favorite people to work with and always added brightness to my weeks. I was transferred overseas for work and remember when I told him in the OR; he gave me a big hug and wished me well. I've just moved back after 10 years away and thought I'd "pop in" to say Hi to him. I am really shocked to hear he is gone.
Joe was a caring, smiling, lovely human being always wanting to help others. I will always remember Joe's bright eyes, smile and hugs.
Rest in peace.
Peter Lee
November 18, 2022
What a small world, I ran into Traci in Tuscany. Joe, she´ll always carry a piece of you with her, you would be so proud of all she´s accomplishing. She´s fulfilling your dreams. Until we meet again, Joe.
Kim W
May 27, 2022
Ran into your "sunshine" as you often called, Traci. You were my doctor, my friend and a blessing to all. Thrilled, I had the opportunity to meet you both. May God Blessing your family
Douglass P Weaver
April 14, 2022
Joe was a resident at Geisinger Hospital in Danville, PA in October 1992. My wife, Janelle, delivered twin boys prematurely between 25 and 26 weeks, like 14 weeks early! (Like Joe, she was a graduate of PCOM. She then became a Family Practice Physician)
After the delivery, she had some complications and we credit Joe with literally saving her life.
Unfortunately, one of the boys never made it out of the hospital. However, as of this date 4/14/2022, Adam (Also a PCOM Graduate) is soon to complete his Internal Medicine residency program in NJ and will be getting married in May.
Joe was extremely friendly and compassionate. While we were up in Danville, he invited us to his house for a terrific steak dinner. He had a great homemade marinade for the steak and we still refer to that as "Novi Meat"! As good as it was, I´m guessing the family often had it!
So sorry to have heard about his passing.
I sent a letter some years ago: "NEWS FLASH: Adam is at PCOM" to his medical office and had hopes to get together in Philadelphia at a PCOM function or for dinner. (Brian was a year ahead of Adam at PCOM)
Joe sent a letter back: "NEWS FLASH BACK AT YOU" Brian is at PCOM too!
Unfortunately, we never were able to get together.
But again, Joe is to thank for saving my wife´s life and you could say mine too had she not pulled through.
To us, he was certainly very special!!!
Gary Cloutier
March 15, 2022
Joe was a tough reliable center on our football team at Brown. Awesome football player. We walked off the field at Columbia in new york city one last time. It was the last time any of us from that class played football again. Of course we routed Columbia. Arm in arm. It was a poignant occasion and a fitting fun end to our careers as varsity football players at old brown under John Anderson joe WIrth regime.
Tammy
December 27, 2021
I´m terribly sorry to hear of Dr. Novi´s passing. He was a amazing doctor.My condolences to the Novi family.
(I just found out at a doctors appointment)
Debra Davis
December 27, 2021
I've only just found out about my wonderful Dr. Novi's passing and am shocked beyond belief. I will NEVER forget his gentle kindness and compassion that he showed me while I was under his care. I am forever sad that he has left our presence. God bless and keep his family and co-workers in grace and comfort even until they meet again. Rest in peace dear sir.
Melanie
October 11, 2021
Joe and Traci- you made me smile today, I started volunteering for hospice and thought of the countless hours you both gave. Joe and Traci your love lives on!!!!
Philip John
September 9, 2021
We miss our visits with you and Traci. From all your stories, our cooking and the love you shared with your wife. We think of you daily. See you on the other side!
Shirley
August 22, 2021
We all miss you Joe. I try to stay in touch with your dear, Traci, as much as I can. Hard to believe it's been over a year. I'll keep Traci and the kids in my prayers
Jodi Schaffer
July 13, 2021
Brian,
Thinking of you, today and everyday. It is an honor to know you.
Don and Lynne DeBrakeleer
July 11, 2021
Sending prayers to Joe's family and friends on the one year anniversary of his passing. Joe was a classmate of ours at PCOM and we have so many great memories of him during those 4 years. I think what we admire most was his true character...he was genuine, caring and always fun to be
around.
Kim
January 31, 2021
Joe will be missed by many. I knew Joe, for a long time and so happy he finally found happiness. The love he had for his wife, Tracie and his children was evident wherever he went. He talked about his granddaughter all the time and how he enjoyed being a, Pop. Joe touched all he came in contact with. Bless you all and may you find comfort during this time.
Beth
December 19, 2020
Dr Novi loved his wife, Tracy. He was so happy and I know God has him in his loving arms.
Pamela Smith, RN
December 10, 2020
I was surprised and shocked to find out that Joe had passed away suddenly. I worked with Joe in the OR at GMC in Danville and I am proud to say he was a talented, smart and caring physician. He will be sorely missed.
Karrie
December 5, 2020
I am so sorry to have found this and send his family my sincere condolences. May God’s blessings, love, and strength help you through this loss. I was a patient of his and am grateful to have been one. His sincere words, kindness and knowledge blessed many who he treated. He had an amazing way to comfort and relax his patients when surgery was needed. Our world has had a great loss when he passed.
Bethany
September 11, 2020
I am so saddened by this. Joe and Traci recently moved to Ottawa Hills, joined Sylvania CC and were just the happiest couple. My husband and I both commented on how in love they were. Rest In Peace!
Roberta
September 10, 2020
Anyone who knew Joe knew how much he talked about his kids, Brian and Meaghan, and how proud of them he was. From going to soccer games to watching them grow up in Columbus, he was always a proud father. He let everyone he met know. He was an amazing surgeon as well, and dear friend. Will miss you dearly.
Dan
September 10, 2020
Thinking of his son, Brian, and daughter, Meaghan, during this difficult time. Was always happiest when he was with his family, especially in Danville, Swarthmore, and Columbus. What a wonderful man and loving father.
Mary
September 5, 2020
My heart aches for Traci, Whitnee, Wade, KC and Wren. Anyone, who knew Joe, knew, who where his heart was. May you all hold his memeories close.
Jo Ann Scavina
August 26, 2020
I was a patient of Dr. Novi. His compassion and kindness are rare gems with any human being. His qualities were rarities to find in a physician, not to mention a specialist surgeon.
When another person that you have only seen minimal times in your life makes such an impression, you know you have met one of God's chosen ones.
The first time I met him I noticed the picture buttons of his children on his lab coat. That made me smile. He was so unbelievable understanding and truly cared about you as a person and a patient.
All the loved ones of Dr. Novi be confident you all of an exceptional guardian angel now! You are all so blessed to have this gift from God in your lives. Feel his embrace everyday!
May you all have Peace in your hearts!
Jo Ann Scavina
Mike
August 24, 2020
The transformation, I witnessed, with Joe was remarkable once he met Traci. He lived his best life with her and gave us all hope for new beginnings. I'll see you on the other side my dear friend!
Jim
August 22, 2020
I will always remember Joe, Beth, Brian and Meaghan as such a wonderful family. Joe was an amazing physician and wonderful friend. His death will leave many heartbroken, but his legacy will live on in his children and the patients he cared for.
Margaret and Tim Wilkinson
August 2, 2020
From the first time we met Dr. Novi he was kind and caring. You just knew what a special person he was immediately ! He made us relaxed and was always patient with all our questions. I had compete confidence in him from day one. He will be terribly missed by many of us and especially his family and staff and all his many friend. Our hearts and prayers go out to all those who loved this very special man especially his family. May God give him his just reward. May Peace and Comfort Surround you always.
Delana Gouch
July 30, 2020
I knew Dr Novi for almost 16 years... He was more of a friend to me than just a work associate.. my heart is truly broken.. I pray that he is at peace and so are his family and friends..
Tamara Johnson
July 29, 2020
I worked with Joe from his first day at Riverside. He was the whole package: great surgeon, amazing bedside manner, kind and helpful to whatever staff he worked with that day. He always remembered to ask how your family was and even with staff he didn’t work with often, remembered their name and personal things about them. I am grateful to have worked with him and even more grateful to have called him a friend. I will miss him greatly. Miss hearing him say, “Hey T.” Joe may you find peace in the loving embrace of God and the angels.
To Joe’s family I am sorry for your loss and he alsways spoke of how much he loved you all.
Matt
July 26, 2020
Joe was always smiling and willing to help others! The happiest I’ve seen him in years is when he was with Traci! May you all find peace during this tragic time.
Lisa
July 26, 2020
Best Doctor and Best Husband to my dear friend, Traci! He loved you for 100 lifetimes!! So sadden by this for you all! Heaven gained a wonderful man!
Tom
July 26, 2020
Such a terrible loss. Joe and Traci always made me smile each time I would run into them. My heart goes out to Traci and his family.
Barbara Craig
July 24, 2020
One of the good guys,always a friend. Working with Joe was a pleasure and always a learning lesson. Remember him coming into the OR wearing a suit under his gown to help deliver twins. He was always there to help. Sympathy to the family.We watched Megan and Brian grow up.
Carolyn & Phil Robinson
July 23, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful man. We will love you and miss you always. He was a brilliant man and saved so many women. Thank you Jesus for your letting us borrow him for 57 years. He will be so missed.
Simone Taylor
July 21, 2020
No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. However, take comfort in knowing God is with you and your family lean on him in your time of need. Please accept my most heartfelt condolences.
Susan Allison-Gephart
July 21, 2020
I was very shocked and saddened to learn of Dr Novi’s passing. He was the kindest, caring Dr I’ve ever known. I had numerous surgeries and he always had that big smile and comforting nature assuring me that everything would be ok. The world lost a special angel! Rest In Peace! God said “Well done thy good and faithful servant”
Mali Khantrece
July 21, 2020
I never met Dr. Novi, but I felt like I knew his kindness through his wonderful relationship with one of his employees, April Marbury. Through April I knew he was compassionate, humane, and generous. May the peace he sought on earth be with him in heaven.
Robin Lester
July 21, 2020
Prayers for Dr Novi’s family and friends. He was such a kind man. I was a patient if his , he was so compassionate I met him when I had just lost my husband, he was so kind. Then after a couple of years I met someone new to love and Dr Novi was so happy for me he felt like a good friend instead of a doctor. He will be missed by so many.
Lori W
July 21, 2020
I was a patient of Dr. Novi some years back, and he performed a surgery that changed my life. He always made me feel at ease through the tests and procedures, and held my hand as I was being put under. What a kind caring man who helped a lot of people during his lifetime.
Teri Gettys
July 21, 2020
My sincere condolences for Dr. Novi's family and friends. I had the honor of having him for my surgeon this past October. From the first time meeting him last July, he put me at such ease and was so kind. He continued that kindness and compassion at every visit and during my surgery. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very difficult time.
Ella
July 21, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Wonderful Doctor who saved my life ! There are no words to express his loss !
Nancy McCormick
July 21, 2020
Dr Novi was a wonderful person and an exceptionally physician. I worked with him at Geisinger. Always kind and caring. The world has lost a good man. Sending prayers to the family.
Martiann (Lee) Bohl-Witchey
July 20, 2020
My heart breaks reading this. I knew Joe as a resident then attending at Geisinger Medical Center. He was one of the kindest physicians I had met and he inspired me to pursue my desire to learn more about medicine. I was an RN at the time but knew I wanted to keep learning. He wrote a letter of recommendation for me for medical school. I followed in his footsteps and went into Ob/Gyn. I ran into him some years later at a conference in Texas. Wanted to stop and say hi but he was having dinner with all the Board Members. I caught the corner of his eye and he jumped up to say "Hi Lee!". He hadn't forgotten me and I will never forget him. So sorry for his sudden loss.
Cynthia Shirley
July 20, 2020
Dr. Novi was one of the most amazing and loving mentor and educator I had the honor of knowing. He taught me so much but most importantly to be compassionate. I am so sorry for your loss.
Patricia Decker
July 20, 2020
Dr. Novi was exceptional in every way. I was an IC patient of his. When I lost my first grandchild at seven months in utero, he took time to sit down with me and offer comfort. I was sorry when he left Ohio Health. Prayers for his repose and his family's grief. He is now a member of the Church Triumphant.
Patricia Decker- Lancaster
Helman Kay
July 19, 2020
My sincere condolences to Dr. Novis family and friends. I have never met such a compassionate physician as Dr. Novi. I feel honored to have been one of his patients. May his memory bring comfort and inspiration to all who miss him.
Robert Shabanowitz
July 19, 2020
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Joe, a friend and former colleague. I knew Joe when he was a resident at Geisinger and we had many, many good laughs together. Joe was always wearing a big smile, and was an exceptional physician. We always had a good time and memorable shared experiences. The world has lost a very good man. My most sincere condolences to Joe's family.
Deb
July 19, 2020
I am heartbroken to hear about Dr Novi. He was the nicest person. Always greeted me when he saw me just an all around nice guy!!
My prayers are with his family.
Deb
July 19, 2020
I am heartbroken to hear about Dr Novi. He was the nicest person. Always greeted me when he saw me just an all around nice guy!!
My prayers are with his family.
Lynn Cleland
July 19, 2020
Some people come into our lives , leaving footprints, so that our lives are never the same again. His footprints have been left all over the world! His smile, words of comfort and encouragement, his strong faith and love of people will live on in those he invested his life into, as we all pay it forward in his memory. I think thats what he would want his legacy to be. Rest in peace my friend until we meet again In Heaven.
Dallas King
July 18, 2020
I am so saddened by this news. Dr Novi was an amazing man and such a wonderfully kind and giving provider. It was a privilege to know him and work with him at Riverside Hospital.
Dallas King
July 18, 2020
I am so saddened by this news. Dr Novi was an amazing man and such a wonderfully kind and giving provider. It was a privilege to know him and work with him at Riverside Hospital.
Joan Armstrong
July 18, 2020
I worked with Joe in Urogyn at Geisinger. He valued my work and taught everyone how to enhance the true meaning of excellent bedside manner. He has positively impacted many lives!
Holly Oberrender Dragonette
July 18, 2020
So sorry for your loss prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Dr. Novi delivered our daughter Onolee back in 1993. I worked with him as well He was so kind and so caring. Hes a doctor youll never forget who left a lasting impression. So sorry for your loss !
Dave
July 18, 2020
Joe and I worked at Riverside together for almost 14 years, this loss is such a shock to us all. Joe lit up when he spoke of Tracie and his granddaughter. My heart goes out to Tracie, all his children and family. May God be with you all.
Susan Skotleski Krum
July 18, 2020
I worked with Dr. Novi 20 years ago. He was a stellar physician, kind, caring, and knowledgeable. He was forever patient and willing to teach. He was loved by the women of Shamokin who talked about his blue eyes for years after he left!!! I knew his children who spent time at my home. They were well manered, delightful and a credit to their parents. I remember how he helped the women he cared for in PA, and am sure he will be missed by the women of Ohio.
He is gone to soon.
Tracey Madden
July 18, 2020
Worked with Joe when he was a resident and staff doctor. He was a wonderful, compassionate person and I believe he was one of the kindest men God could have put on the earth.
Candace Park
July 18, 2020
I did not have the privilege to scrub often for Dr. Novi, but when I did, what a treat it was ! He consistently had a kind word, a smile on his face and welcomed me to his operating room. It was always a good day. He treated everyone with respect. On top of all that a talented, gifted surgeon, his patients were so lucky to find him. You will be greatly missed Dr. Novi. Rest In Peace ❤
Barbara
July 18, 2020
I am so very sad to hear about the passing of Dr. Novi. I was a patient of his and he always made the effort to make sure I felt comfortable and understood what he was telling me. He was the only surgeon I ever had who stood with me, held my hand, while I was anesthetized. He told me everything would be ok, and I will always remember that. Im sure he will be missed by many. May eternal light shine on him and, through the mercy of God, may he Rest In Peace.
Kelly Mitchell
July 18, 2020
My sincere condolences for the loss of such a wonderful man. Dr. Novi was a remarkable physician who touched many lives. His kind gentle demeanor put those he treated at ease. He personally treated me and I feel blessed to have been a patient if his. As a nurse I saw how he treated all with respect and kindness. He was dedicated to caring for all. May his legacy live on through the many lives he touched.
Lydia Webb
July 17, 2020
I never met Dr Novi ,but felt like I knew him from listening to my daughter Tonia Wilkins,who worked has a surgical tech in his room.
Prayers for the family ❤
Lydia Webb
July 17, 2020
I never met Dr Novi,but felt as if I did, solely because of Tonia Wilkins ,my daughter,who Loved working has his surgical tech ,at Riverside.
May God Bless your family.
Robin Weitzel
July 17, 2020
Dr. Novi was one of the nicest doctors at Riverside Hospital! Always smiling and would say hello to you in the hallway. He was so kind to all of us who work at the main surgery desk. My heart is saddened by the news of his passing, and my sincere condolences go out to his entire family. May his love and memories stay in your hearts forever.
Tom Shober
July 17, 2020
Joe was one of the most genuine and kindest individuals Ive had the pleasure of encountering in my life. While our paths didnt cross often after our time at Brown, I very often thought of our time together and the fact that Joe made everyone around him happier. Im sure he will be missed by those fortunate enough to be a more active part of his life. Rest In Peace, Joe.
Tom Shober
July 17, 2020
Joe was one of the most genuine and kindest individuals Ive had the pleasure of encountering in my life. While our paths didnt cross often after our time at Brown, I very often thought of our time together and the fact that Joe made everyone around him happier. Im sure he will be missed by those fortunate enough to be a more active part of his life. Rest In Peace, Joe.
Bob Newland
July 17, 2020
Im deeply saddened to hear of Joes passing. We were friends, classmates and teammates in high school. Joe always had a kind heart and a friendly smile. While I havent spoken to him in years Im not surprised by the comments left here. He had a positive impact on everyone he came in contact with. My condolences to his family.
Sharon
July 17, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Joe in surgery for 16 wonderful years. I still remember showing him around on his first day with us, I addressed him as Dr. Novi and he told me his mom named him Joe. After that I never called him anything else. We always fought over who got to work with him for the day, because it was always the best day. I still remember the lab coat he would wear when making rounds, big button photos of His kids soccer pictures, he was so proud of his family.He never spoke an unkind word about anyone. He would even check in on us after we had a surgery or family crisis. Please know that you are all In our thoughts and prayers. He made the world a better place.
Linda Weber
July 17, 2020
Joe was one of the nicest men I have ever met. He was down to earth, you could just sit down & have a conversation with him even if you didn't know him that well. You felt comfortable around him.
I will miss him dearly.
Linda Weber
McArthur Baker
July 17, 2020
would just like to mention to the close family and friends of dr. Novi,
that when we speak of his genuine good heart, as you already know its not just mere words, this man was the first surgeon who when passing me in the halls would always call me by name and ask how i was doing, that touched me deeply, made this person of small importance in our surgery room feel like a somebody, I`LL NEVER FORGET THIS MAN, and i pray that God never forgets him as well.
Carmele Clark
July 17, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Joe was an exceptional man and physician filled with empathy and compassion. He always treated everyone with kindness. I will miss him greatly.
Carmele Clark
July 17, 2020
I am completely heartbroken with the loss of this wonderful man. He has treated me so well as his patient for several years. He exemplified true compassion and kindness always to everyone he met. I will miss him greatly. Rest in peace and prayers for his family will continue.
Lynne and Don DeBrakeleer
July 17, 2020
My husband and I were classmates of Joe at PCOM. We have so many great memories of him and his gentle spirit and kind soul. He will always be remembered as that laid back, fun loving guy who brightened your day with just his smile. Prayers for all his family and friends and especially his children during this unimaginable loss.
Laura Mazur
July 17, 2020
To the entire Novi and extended family, may your beautiful memories of your son, brother, husband, uncle, get you through this very very sad time. My memories of Joe were how he always had a BIG smile on his face whenever you saw him. He made you feel so at ease when you were around him. Even though I haven't been in his company for many a year, people like that, forever stay the same. I am sending you much love and lots of hugs from afar. I will keep Joe and all of you in my prayers as you start your grief journey...♥
Robert J. Chiaradio, Jr. Westerly, RI
July 17, 2020
As teammates at Brown, and with both of us being Italian-American, Joe and I quickly became friends, and remained so. Even then, he was a gentle and kind soul. Joe definitely made this world a better place, and it was my privilege to call him my friend. I send sincere condolences to Joe's mom, to Traci, their children, and to the entire Novi family. Joe left his mark on our hearts, and he will never be forgotten. May he Rest In Peace.
Robert J. Chiaradio, Jr. Westerly, RI
July 17, 2020
As teammates at Brown, and with both of us being Italian-American, Joe and I instantly became friends, and remained so. Even then, he was a gentle, kind soul. He definitely made this world a better place. Sincere condolences to Joes mom, to Traci, their children, and the entire Novi family. Joe left his mark on our hearts, and he will never be forgotten. May he Rest In Peace.
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