Donald Paul Novak, 86, a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, Papa, and friend, passed away at home surrounded by family on Thursday, July 11, 2024. He was born June 29, 1938, to his parents, Stanley Novak and Geneva (Coplea) Novak. Don was united in marriage with his beloved wife, Kay (Combs) Novak, for over 62 years.

Don's journey through life led him to a career of 32 years as a wrestling coach, baseball coach, football coach, Physical Education teacher, and Driver's Education teacher at Eisenhower High School in Decatur, Illinois. Don took great pride in his work, dedicating himself to always being fair and expecting everyone to give their best under his skilled guidance.

Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, carving, woodworking, canoeing, and being with his family. His most unique accomplishment was the tens of thousands of four-leaf clovers he found. Quick Funny: The local sheriff's wife saw Don bending over to get clovers and told her husband that the white-haired man probably needed help. Lost his keys or something.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Geneva Novak; his son, Donnie Novak; his sisters: Nola Rae, Shirley, and Diane and his brothers; Tim, Tommy, Vincent, Stan, and Pete.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of his surviving family members. Don is survived by his wife, Kay (Combs) Novak; his daughters Lisa Novak, and Sherri (Jeff) Williams and his son Jason (Jen) Novak. His legacy also lives on through his five grandchildren: Kaylee (Brandon) Coughlin, Kaytlin Williams, Ragan Williams, Mason (Marissa) Novak, and Bristol Novak. Don's great grandchildren; Cooper Coughlin and Cecylia Novak bring further joy to the family tree.

In addition to his immediate family, Don is survived by his sisters: Louise, Mary, Suzie (Rick), Debbie (John); and his brother Steve Novak.

There will be a Memorial Mass on Thursday, August 29th at 10:00 a.m. held at St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church, Floyds Knobs, Indiana. Immediately following the Mass, a luncheon will be served in Assumption Hall. Please let the family know if you will be attending so a headcount may be provided to the church.

Interment will be a private graveside service at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 31st in Dundas, Illinois. Following the internment, there will be a gathering at Pizza Fast (307 South Whittle, Olney, Illinois) in the big room at 11:00. Please feel welcome to join the family and enjoy looking at pictures from Don's well lived life. Please no live flower donations. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating a tax deductible gift to E. T. York Hospice Care Ctr, Haven House, 4200 NW 90th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32609-3809. They took such loving, incredible care of Don as they helped with determining which medications would enable Don to remain at home with his loving wife and devoted daughter, Lisa.

Don will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. May he rest in peace.

Decatur Herald & Review, Decatur, IL - Jul. 23 & 24, 2024.