Paul John Novak

Paul John Novak, Jr., age 75, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025. Born on August 4, 1950, in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the cherished son of Paul John Novak, Sr. and Sophie Kost Novak, who preceded him in death.

If one word could describe Paul, it would be dependable. He was the kind of man who stood firmly for what was right, who protected those around him instinctively, and who would, without hesitation, put himself in harm's way for the sake of others. His life's work and his relationships all bore witness to that unwavering sense of duty and heart.

Paul lived a remarkable life shaped by service, integrity, courage, and-known well to those close to him-a keen wit and sense of humor. His career spanned decades across law enforcement, federal service, and high-level security leadership. As a Special Agent and Assistant Regional Security Officer with the United States Department of State, Paul protected ambassadors, foreign dignitaries, and American personnel both at home and abroad. He served in high-threat posts, led emergency action planning, supervised complex protective details, and carried out critical investigations involving national security. His commitment to safeguarding others took him from Los Angeles to Honduras, and even to the construction of the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, where he helped ensure the security and integrity of one of the nation's most sensitive diplomatic projects.

Paul later brought his expertise to The Boeing Company as an Industrial Security Specialist and Facility Security Officer, overseeing the protection of classified defense programs and leading crisis response, threat assessment, and security compliance efforts. In his final professional role, he served as the Security and Safety Manager for Dallas Water Utilities, where he guided department-wide safety initiatives, managed major security programs, and worked tirelessly to protect employees and infrastructure across the city.

He also shared his deep well of knowledge as a college professor of Criminal Justice, mentoring students at several Texas institutions and shaping the next generation of public-service professionals.

Beyond his extraordinary accomplishments, Paul was a man who loved life-especially Texas sports. Whether cheering on Texas Longhorn football, catching a volleyball match, or supporting virtually any team from his beloved state, Paul brought enthusiasm, loyalty, and that trademark humor to every game day.

Despite all he achieved, Paul remained humble, grounded, and deeply loyal. To his family, friends, and colleagues, he was a steady presence-calm in a storm, wise in moments of uncertainty, wickedly funny when levity was needed, and always ready to shoulder a burden for someone else. To know Paul was to know strength, reliability, kindness, and laughter wrapped into one steadfast soul.

Paul is survived by his devoted fiancée, Marjorie Flanders; his son, Alex Flanders; his brother, Michael Novak; and his sisters, Rose Fiduk and Kathleen Jameson. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews, Kenneth Fiduk and his wife Rachel and their children; and Andrew Fiduk and his wife Megan and their son. They, along with the many people whose lives he touched, will forever remember his courage, his generosity, his humor, and the profound sense of security he brought simply by being himself.

Following Paul's wishes, there will be no public services, and the family appreciates the love and support extended to them.

May he rest in peace.