GUILDERLAND – Jacob F. “Jack” Nowak, Jr., 73, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Saturday, July 18, 2015 in the Hospice Inn at St. Peter’s Hospital. Jack was born in Albany, the son of the late Jacob F. Nowak, Sr. and Anne Romanowski Nowak. He served in the U.S. Army for three years, and was employed by the State University of New York for many years, retiring as Director of Network Services, New York Network. Jack loved hunting and fly fishing, especially on the Ausable River. He also tied fishing flies, which he would share with others. In addition, he enjoyed calligraphy and wood carving. He carved many walking sticks for family and friends. He also carved walking sticks which were sold and the funds donated to veterans causes. He also was a master at flower and vegetable gardening, and his spectacular home garden was well known in his neighborhood.
Jack is survived by his beloved wife Anne P. Liotta Nowak; his daughters Debbie Carey (Rex) of Voorheesville, Dawn Nowak of Guilderland, and Dena Ackerman (Michael) of East Greenbush; his sister Dr. Judith Nowak (Esra Bennathan) of Washington, DC; his brother Richard Nowak (Linda) of Watkins Glen; his mother in law Ermina “Willy” Liotta; his grandchildren Samantha and Janel Carey, and Courtney and Kyle Ackerman; and by several nieces and nephews.
The Nowak family wishes to thank the staff of Community Hospice, the Hospice Inn, and Dr. Richard Lavigne and his staff for the wonderful care they provided to Jack.
A mass in celebration of Jack’s life will be held Friday morning at 11:00 am in Christ the King Church, Sumpter Ave., Guilderland. Relatives and friends are invited. Interment will be in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers and mass cards, donations may be made to The Community Hospice for Hospice Inn, 295 Valley View Blvd, Rensselaer, NY 12144. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.
Judy Mills
July 21, 2015 at 10:33 amPlease know that your family is in my prayers and thoughts as you grieve the loss of your husband & father. I know you can all take comfort knowing he is at peace and no longer in pain.
Deb Garner
July 21, 2015 at 1:37 pmTo Deb and Family,
So sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts go out to all of you during this difficult time. Remember all of the good times you had together.
marcia zucchelli
July 21, 2015 at 5:04 pmSo very sorry for the loss of a great man,husband,father,grandfather, I will always remember the beautiful carved cross you made for my parents grave and still stands proud may your good heart and memories last forever.you are all in our prayers.The Zucchellis.
Betsy Wykes
July 22, 2015 at 7:46 amDawn,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. Thinking of you in this difficult time. Here’s to a good man – the life he lived and the hearts he touched! My deepest condolences to you and your family!
Love, Betsy
Kathleen Free
July 22, 2015 at 9:22 amAs a life long friend of Jack’s sister, Judith, I feel as though I knew him. She spoke of him often as her “big brother”, a kind-hearted man. and Judith respected his knowledge of proper hunting and fishing. He seemed to be one with the nature he loved. I know he will be remembered and missed.
All sympathy goes out to the Nowak Family for Jack’s passing, and may you be comforted in having shared his life, love and spirit.
Nancy Pline
July 24, 2015 at 8:23 amTo the Nowak Family:
I worked with Jack at the NY Network for many years. I have many wonderful memories of that time and the kindness Jack extended to me. Jack was always smiling and ready to help. Also–loved his jokes.
I am sorry for the loss you are feeling.
Teri Gizzi
July 28, 2015 at 5:48 amDawn-
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. He passed before his time. I hope you find comfort in knowing he is no longer suffering. He is now in heaven and you have your own guardian angel.
Remember the good times and the wonderful memories you have. In this way he will always be with you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love Teri
Cindy grimes
September 16, 2015 at 12:48 pmMy sincere condolences to the Nowak family. May the God of all comfort strengthen you during this difficult time, Psalms 83:18.