James "Jack" Novak

Novak – James “Jack” of Tucson, Arizona, formerly of Grand Rapids MI, age 80, passed away May 2, 2019 surrounded by his family at home.

Jack is survived by his beloved, Sharon; his sons, Jack M. Novak, Steven Lamphear, and Stuart Lamphear; daughters Genyphyr (Robert) Novak-Farwell, Rebecca Novak, and Laura Purcell; his mother, Rose Wisowaty; sister Judith Miderski; grandchildren Rachel, Keith, Chad, Justin, Michael, James, and Maxwell; eight  great-grandchildren; and many relatives and friends.

Jack was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.  After graduating from St. Mel High School in 1956, he went to St Joseph’s college for two years.  He entered the U.S. Army, serving as a radio teletype operator in Fort Carson, Colorado.  He received an honorable discharge in 1961 and obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Metallurgical Engineering from IIT in 1964.  While working as a metallurgist in Chicago, he attended night classes at DePaul University, receiving his Master of Science degree in Mathematics in 1968.  In 1971, he had the opportunity to complete his Professional Engineer licensing with the State of Michigan, where he worked for the next 21 years, first as an Air Quality Engineer and later an Industrial Health Engineer for the Occupational Health Division, Department of Public Health.

After retiring from the State of Michigan, he relocated to Tucson, Arizona with his wife Sharon, where he continued to work as a Professional Engineer -CIH consultant until 2018.

Known for his wonderful sense of humor, Jack was an avid sailor, triathlete, science fiction buff and jazz aficionado who most of all enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Our loving husband, father, and grandpa will be forever missed. A Memorial service will be held in Grand Rapids MI August 3, Saturday, 11am, at Remembrance Church, 4575 Remembrance Rd NW, GR 49534.  Contributions may be made to American Cancer Society or the charity of your choice in memory of Jack.