Thomas Novak Obituary

Name: Celebration of Life for Thomas Novak
Start: 2025-07-12T13:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-07-12T16:00:00.000Z
Location: Mike and Barb Morehead's Home

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jun. 26, 2025.

Thomas Wayne "Tom" Novak, age 73, passed away on October 15, 2024, in Sun City West, Arizona with loved ones at his bedside. Born on April 24th, 1951, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Tom lived a life marked by curiosity, compassion, and a deep commitment to service.

Tom graduated from Hill High School and continued his education towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota. His professional journey included roles at Sears, Zeos, Deluxe, and Target.

Beyond his career, Tom was deeply devoted to volunteerism. He gave generously of his time and energy to organizations such as Empty Bowls fundraisers, Feed My Starving Children, Habitat for Humanity, Good Neighbor meals, highway cleanups, and Buckthorn Removal Projects. His dedication to helping others left a lasting impact on the communities he served.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Nancy (Covington), who shared with him a life full of adventure and devotion. Together they traveled the world and cultivated a beautiful garden at home-a reflection of their shared love for nature and discovery. He also leaves behind his children and grandchildren: Anthony (Sara); John (Katelyn); and Elisabeth (Jordan) Siders. His family was a source of great pride and joy throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Joseph and Agnes Barbara (Ledo), as well as his brother Lawrence Frank "Larry" Novak.

Tom had an intelligent sense of humor that brought warmth to every room he entered. He was known for tinkering with projects around the house-always curious about how things worked and eager to improve them. A lifelong learner with an avid interest in spirituality across multiple religions, Tom found meaning in exploring ancient civilizations through documentaries and indulged in sci-fi, mystery, and action thrillers that sparked his imagination.

Gentle-hearted and kind to all creatures-human or otherwise-Tom's presence was one of quiet strength and enduring kindness. He was greatly loved by those who knew him and is deeply missed.

In honor of Tom's generous spirit, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 12th, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM with a service at 2 pm at Mike and Barb Morehead's home located at 1940 Quant Ave S. Afton, MN, 55001. Food will be served and children are welcome.

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Anthony Novak

July 9, 2025

Tom Novak was Helpful, Positive, and Loved Family. Here are a few stories to highlight his walk through life

Helpful:
You will never run into someone more willing to help. Throughout the years, he helped with Gardening, Projects, and various other activities. He had so much energy and helpfulness that I heard he took on some maintenance activities for MN DOT and the Phone company when he was in his early 20's. I would bet that everyone reading this has a nail in a roof, a car that got them home one night, and made it home safely to get a beer in their belly because of Tom.

Positive:
No matter the story, the situation, or the adversity - there was always a positive spin. When a car broke down, a door got locked, a need arose - he was there to help see the happy future outcome. He took time to explain things to kids that they would have no ability to understand, just because they asked. No story could be finished on a sad note - he always had a positive point to share.

Family:
He was there for everyone. Was there a grandkids' Football, Soccer, Baseball, ANY game without him on the sidelines? Gathering at a cousins campfire, Aunt's and Uncle's needed a barn cleaned, directions back from the corner of "tree and light", he made the time to be there. How many cubic yards of sand were pushed by kids and grandkids with the hot wheels excavation toys (most in a 1X3 tray on the center island of the kitchen)?

There are so many stories you might not have heard. I wonder if Sears lasted as long as it did due to a happy smile and an extra sale? How many people started voting after a conversation on politics? Did Target grow in the early 2000's due to his efficiencies while setting up new distribution centers? How many families have a house due to his volunteering at Habitat for Humanity?

You might be told the last of the stories involve birds in the flowers, Documentaries on TV, and dog sitting (napping) - But I will argue you are wrong. I think the stories are still being written, every time you hear your name yelled and someone asks you "How are you?" or "What have you been up to?" - that is how Tom always met everyone, Every Day.