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Michael Eugene Nowakowski

1950 - 2025

Michael Eugene Nowakowski obituary, 1950-2025, Gilroy, CA

BORN

1950

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Habing Family Funeral Home

129 4th Street

Gilroy, California

Michael Nowakowski Obituary

A proud, life-long resident of Gilroy, Michael Nowakowski, lived all 74 years with an energy, warmth and passion that drew people in and made everyone feel welcome. He graduated from Gilroy High School in 1968, was a valued member of the Gavilan Rams football team, and went on to graduate from Chico State in 1974. Mike spent nearly five decades as the valued owner of The Glass Man and Gilroy Mirror and Glass, serving his community with dedication and pride.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Michele and children Meghan (Craig) Kovaleski and Marissa Allen. The proudest grandfather (Packi) to Caroline and Bennett Kovaleski and Alexander Allen. Loving nephew of Joyce (Bobby) Marks, cousin of Jimmy and Tommy Marks, Carol (Dennis) Richie and Anne (Brad) Gilbertson. Cousin-in-law to Paulette Heguilustoy, Monique (Jean) Flesher, Denise (David) Shaw, Jean-Jules and Dominiqua Flesher and Jake and Luke Shaw. He was incredibly loved by his honorary family, Don (Mia) DeLorenzo, Dan (Keri) Rorvik, Bria (Andrea) DeLorenzo, Vincent (Amanda) DeLorenzo, Colby, Kamryn, Kaylee, and Gianna. He cherished his extended family of cousins, great nieces and nephews, Godchildren and lifelong friends-all of whom he deeply loved. His circle was wide, but his heart was wider.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Nowakowski and Mary Cutter; his beloved twin brother, Stephen Nowakowski; and his dear cousin, Robert Marks.

A true presence in every room, Mike had a gift for making people laugh, feel valued and truly welcome. Whether he was cooking a feast for family and friends, playing Pedro with the "Patio People," or cheering loudly from the stands at his grandchildren's games, he showed up fully-never halfway, always with humor, enthusiasm, and a little extra volume.

He loved skiing, golfing, and being a member of the Gilroy Sportsman Chef Club. He never missed a Cal football game ("Go Bears!") and believed music should always be played at the highest possible decibel.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of connection, enthusiasm, and humor. His personality and heart were larger than life, and he made life larger for everyone around him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The First Tee, in his honor.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Gilroy Dispatch from Aug. 12 to Aug. 29, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Nowakowski

Sponsored by Habing Family Funeral Home.

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27 Entries

Jim K Kroske

Yesterday

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Jim and Jeri Kroske

Nick Boffa

Yesterday

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Greg Stein

August 16, 2025

Fun lovingFull throttleAll American Nice GuyI will miss your company.

dieter batty

August 16, 2025

Gentleman with wit and charm. Dieter "Doc" Batty

Santos Garcia

August 16, 2025

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Danny Martin

August 15, 2025

Love that guy to the moon! Loved all his stories and standing side by side cooking. Looks like we got another angel to watch our backs. God bless Mike and his family. ❤

Ron and Renee Patterson

August 14, 2025

Mike was an amazing man, father, husband and father. A beautiful life well lived. He will be missed

Garry Stutheit

August 14, 2025

To Mike's Family,
So sorry to read the passing of Mike. For many years he was a client of my pharmacy,Gilroy Medical Pharmacy, and he did much work for me due due broken glass during breaking. Mike also did personnel work at our home. Mike was ALWAYS pleasant and had a smile on his face. He was enjoyable to talk with and RIP Mike, you will be missed by all.

Karen Hagen

August 14, 2025

So sorry Michele and girls and families
I will miss Mike we reconnected at our weekly "68" lunches..We have so many childhood memories from Kindergarten to Gavilan and beyond..We grew up in the same neighborhood playing games, walking to and from school.
I will miss you Mike❤❤

Karen Covington

August 14, 2025

So so sorry, Michelle! Mike was s great guy! He always made me laugh hugs are being sent to you and your family. Love,karen Fortino Covington

Jimmy Hock

August 13, 2025

I will never forget his laugh and ability to have you in tears laughing hysterically 30 seconds into a conversation with him. It’s been a long time since I last saw him but I will never forget the Original “Spy Smasher” and will always remember the fun times we had together. Thinking of you all.

Tom Marks

August 13, 2025

I miss our bantering about the Giants already. I'm sure you've turned God into a Giants fan. Thank you for all you've done & the support you gave to me & the family. I love you.

Susanne Wilkins

August 13, 2025

Michael was always full of life, humor and smiles. When he entered a room, you could hear his presence and feel his kindness.
You will be missed by many, Michael! May you rest in peace❣

Mark Derry

August 13, 2025

A good Gilroy man who raised a wonderful family with Michele. Heartfelt condolences.

Craig Moriyama

August 13, 2025

You will be missed my friend.. Have fun in heaven

Barbara Allen

August 13, 2025

I remember Mike and his brother Steve fondly. Yes, he was a great one to bring out the best in others. He will be missed, but he will have friends on the 'other side'.

Dave Rorvik

August 12, 2025

I was so blessed to visit with Mike in Capitola in June. Mike knew what the future had in store, and accepted what was in store. Going to miss his loving humor! God speed!

Del Snyder

August 12, 2025

Mike and Steve were valued friends and I will always be grateful for the times I enjoyed with them...I was a member of the 1970 gavilan football team....go rams

Ben Morton

August 12, 2025

REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND

Shawn Bruce

August 12, 2025

Love you Mike, it was an honor, I will miss you

Travis Graham

August 12, 2025

I miss you so much already, I love you brother.

Michele Bozzo

August 12, 2025

Such a great man. He will be missed.

Letty Gutierrez-Camarena

August 12, 2025

Michele and extended family. So sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in prayer and my God be at your side to give you comfort.

Imelda Benitez

August 12, 2025

Rest in peace, Mike along side with Steve
Thank you both for your contributions to Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Golf for the kid's sake! You will always be remembered.

Vincent Saso

August 12, 2025

He was a wonderful kind person.

Jeff Martin

August 12, 2025

Truly, a good Man.

Showing 1 - 27 of 27 results

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Funeral services provided by:

Habing Family Funeral Home

129 4th Street, Gilroy, CA 95020

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