Henry Novak

It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of our loved one, Henry Novak.  He left us on February 5, 2025 at the Neepawa Hospital following a cardiac arrest at the age of 89 years.  Dad was a man of immense humor and wisdom and he cherished every moment with his loved ones.  

On October 4, 1935, Dad was born in Grayson, SK to Henry and Anna Novak (nee Kopetski).  The family grew, adding a sister Lillian and and a brother Ernest.  In 1948, the family moved to McCreary on the farm.  

In 1963, Dad met the love of his life Darlene (nee Ogg).  They celebrated 61 years of marriage together.  On the farm, they raised 2 daughters Brenda and Debbie.  Dad and Mom retired to the town of McCreary, MB. 

Dad received his education in Grayson/Melville districts in Saskatchewan and then at Sunrise school northeast of McCreary.  He took Grade 6 and then upgraded in Dauphin.  Dad had a very special friend, Herb Benson.  Their friendship started at the age of 13 until his passing day.  Dad made many friendships with musical band members and many people across the country.  

Dad was a farmer, a musician who played the accordion and bass guitar.  He made Parkland trailers in Dauphin and took a leather making course.  Dad worked for Maple Leaf Construction in Winnipeg and for Red River Construction putting in the waterworks in McCreary.  Henry loved trapping. fishing, hunting and his music. 

On one occasion while on his way home from playing for a pie social, he ended up with a lemon pie on his head.  The driver had missed a curve and ended up in a farmer's field.  Dad never missed a birthday or anniversary.  He enjoyed having everyone at home and using the camcorder to capture the special memories.  Our children and grandchildren knew that if you ever needed a part, they would see Grandpa.  The kids called it "Grandpa's Canadian Tire Shop".  When eating a meal, he always added extra flavor such as pepper on ice cream.  When they weren't looking, he would always add extra to their plate.  If you didn't eat it, he would always say "Don't you like it"?  Dad loved playing Sequence with family and friends.  He always had a hidden card up his sleeve or we thought he did! He always seemed to win! 

Left to cherish Dad's memory; his wife Darlene, his daughters Brenda Grudeski Smith (Andy) & Debbie Novak, his grandchildren Jeremy (Katie), Dustin (Kayley), Lindsay (Matthew), Brady (Stephanie), his great grandchildren Logan & Rosie Grudeski, Parker Henry Smith and one on the way, his sibling Lillian Cale and Ernest Novak along with many nieces and nephews.  

Dad was predeceased by his parents Henry and Anna, his son-in-laws Curtis Grudeski and Pete Doan and his brother-in-law Alvin Cale.  

Funeral Service for Henry was held on Monday, February 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the McCreary Legion Hall, McCreary, MB,  Interment followed in the McCreary Catholic Cemetery.  
Should friends so desire, please consider remembering Henry with a donation to a charity of one's choice.