Jean (Evans) Novak

Jean Novak

Age 85, peacefully passed away at her home on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 surrounded by her loving family.

Born November 15, 1936 in Joliet. A lifelong resident of the area, Jean graduated from Joliet Central High School and was very proud of attending the Silver Cross Nursing Program which was especially useful with the size of her active family. She had a love for singing and a beautiful voice. She tirelessly cared for her parents, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and countless others. For over 50 years, Jean was a dedicated Jehovah’s Witness.

Jean instilled in her children a strong sense of family. She always warmed the room with her smile, love and laughter. She was always the one to call on for advice, to share big news, consult on medical concerns and always available for moral support. Jean was the glue that held generations together, the shoulder to cry on and open loving arms to hug you. The memories of her selflessness, amazing meals and love will be missed and cherished forever.

Jean is survived by her children: John, III (Kay) Novak, Lyn (the late Albert) Krusemark, Deborah (Chuck) Dean, Laurie (Tom) Anderson, Joseph (Terike) Novak and Barbara (Fred) Hunssinger; twelve grandchildren: Dr. Sara Novak, John Novak, IV, Allyn (Jeff) Krusemark-Reed, Karine (Scott) Whiteford, Taylor (Kyle) Broman, Brittany (James) Harris, Maggie Pirofalo, Michael (Jenna) Anderson, Matthew Anderson, Fred (Carrie) Hunssinger, Jodie (Jim) Yerkes and Jaime (Al) Landis; twenty great-grandchildren: Timothy and Calli Campbell, Charles Bublitz, Corinne and Dustin Pirofalo, Jack and Grant Reed, Reese, Beckham, Novak and Wellington Whiteford, Everleigh, Remi and Barrett Hunssinger, Ethan, Ben, Lucas and Ellie Yerkes, Nico Villapiano and Jack Berner; one great-great granddaughter: Kendall Campbell; brothers: Russell (Deborah) Evans, Jr. and Wayne (Cheryl) Evans, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as extended family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her devoted husband of 64 years: John Novak, Jr.; parents: Russell and Helen (Travica) Evans; parents-in-law: John, Sr. and Mary (Kijowski) Novak; brother: David Evans, and son-in-law: Albert Krusemark, III.

Per Jean’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

A private memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. A livestream of the service will be provided for anyone that would like to attend virtually. Please visit Jean’s obituary page on the funeral home website to access the livestream link at that time. Interment will follow, and Jean will be laid to rest next to her late husband at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet.