James F. Novak
September 15, 1933 ~ December 31, 2008
James F. Novak, 75, of 4417 Loraine St. NE. Cedar Rapids, died Wednesday, December 31, 2008, at St. Luke's Hospital, Cedar Rapids, following a short illness. Services: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 2009, at Stewart Funeral Home, Cedar Rapids, by Deacon Paul Zimmerman. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to service time on Sunday at the funeral home. Survivors include two daughters., Debbie Swearingen of Cedar Rapids and Terrie Novak of Denver, Colorado; two sons, Michael (Kim) Novak of Palo, Iowa and Keith Novak; two sisters, Barbara (Raymond) Novey and Judith (Thomas) Fleming-Shaw, all of Cedar Rapids; three grandchildren, Bob Swearingen, Tiffany Novak, and Brandon Novak; and a special friend, Judy Benson of Cedar Rapids. Jim was born September 15, 1933 in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of Frank C. and Anna (Synacek) Novak. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. While Jim was married to Margaret 'Peggy' Scanland they had four children. He worked for 39 years at Iowa Manufacturing. He was a member of St. Pius Catholic Church, loved trains and enjoyed photography. He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother, Florence 'Flossie' Novak; a son-in-law, Ray Swearingen; and a brother-in-law, Jerry 'Butch' Fleming. A memorial fund has been established.
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Mike and Family, I’m very sorry for your loss. The photo in the obituary is very handsome and admirable. Many thanks that he served his country.
Jim was really a life saver. When he was about 7 or 8 years old, he and sistert Barbara and parents were visiting relatives on a farm. The kids played by the stock tank. Jim sailed a boat, and of course she had to get a better view. She leaned too far and feel in. Jim went into action and pulled her out. Read all about it in the LaPorte City Gazzette.
Growing up on Loraine St., right across the street from your family I have a lot of memories. Like rummaging through all Jim’s “treasures” in the basement and hanging out in his camper with the neighbor kids. I remember how much fun we had when he took the neighbor kids camping at Adventureland park in the summer.
Terrie, looking back at the things your Dad enjoyed traveling, camping, photography, I realize he passed that on to you, as you continue to enjoy the same things he will be with you.
Dear Cousins we are sorry for you loss. I remember your Dad being a lot like his Dad very independent and spoke his mind. We will miss him. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
I always admired you. You were always strong and so intelligent. I will miss you, espically talking to you. You were a great father and a man. I love you.
So sorry that I missed that in the paper. I had run into your dad once or twice at the grocery store and caught up a couple times. Sue saw it and let me know. I hope that memories are helping you through this difficult time.
I was so lucky to have known Jim for almost 30 years. He was an awesome guy. I can’t believe yet that he isn’t around. It seemed like he was always within my reach. I miss him terribly as I am sure all his family and friends do. I’m sure everyone has great memories of him.