Johnny Frank Novak

Johnny Frank Novak was born on January 25, 1936 to parents Andrew and Cecilia Tafelski Novak. He went home to be with his Lord and Savior on July 7, 2020. Johnny was born and raised in New Waverly and was a lifelong resident. He was married to his loving wife, Dorothy, for almost 50 years and had two children. In his early years he attended Sam Houston State University and he was a sergeant and tank commander in the National Guard at Fort Polk, LA. Johnny worked as a road and bridge engineer for TX DOT and retired after 40+ years in his career. When he retired, he had a successful business sharpening saw blades. He was one of the founding members of the Walker County Fair Association and was the original chairman of the market barrow committee during its early years. During that time his sons were showing and he was always very involved in their projects. Johnny was a life-long parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Waverly and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #5921. He served on the New Waverly ISD school board for 10+ years. Johnny was an accomplished guitarist and also played the banjo and violin. He was part of a musical group that called themselves The New Waverly Connection and from time to time, would visit the nursing homes in the area and play for the residents. Johnny loved to go to Branson, Missouri and see the country music shows. He had a very full life in his little hometown and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Johnny is survived by his sons, Greg Novak and wife Karen and Mark Novak and Tonya Randio. Grandchildren, Colby Novak and wife Shelby and Kyle Novak. He is also survived by his brother, Tom Novak and wife Le. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother James E. Novak and his loving wife, Dorothy Jane Novak. The Novak family wishes to extend a special thank you to Johnny’s caregivers, Lisa Richardson, who was with him for over 10 years and Debra Young, who helped out on the weekends for over 5 years. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00pm on Thursday, July 9, 2020, at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville, Texas followed by a rosary at 7:00pm. A catholic mass will be held on Friday, July 10 at 11:00am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in New Waverly, Texas. Graveside services will follow at Elmina Cemetery. We welcome and encourage you all to attend, even during these difficult times. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that donations be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 101 Elmore St., New Waverly, Texas 77358. Memorial condolences to the family may be made at www.shmfh.com.

Johnny Frank Novak

January 25, 1936 - July 7, 2020