Ervin Novak, Dr.

NOVAK, Dr. Ervin
Kalamazoo, MI Dr. Ervin Novak, 82, passed away August 21, 2009 at Bronson Methodist Hospital from complications following chemotherapy. Ervin was born on March 21, 1927 in Bardejov, Czechoslovakia. He married the love of his life, Dr. Anna Sedal Novak, on August 20, 1953 and together with their two small children they emigrated to the United States in 1964. Ervin lived a full life of many accomplishments. He was educated in Czechoslovakia where he earned his pharmacy degree, medical degree, and a PhD. in biochemistry. Dr. Novak worked as a research scientist for the Upjohn Company for over 25 years. In the later years of his career he had a part-time dermatology practice and also worked at the Veteran's Administration Hospital, and at Western Michigan University Health Center. Ervin was well-liked and respected by his colleagues and patients for whom he showed kindness, patience and care. In addition to his academic and professional achievements, Ervin enjoyed reading, mastering numerous languages, travelling, theater, music, art and socializing. He had a sharp mind and incredible wit. Ervin laughed often, told many good jokes, and with an uncanny ability to recall details of both world history and his own childhood, told great stories. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. A gentle man and a true gentleman, Erv will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. Dr. Novak is survived by his wife of 56 years, Anna; his son Michael of Denver, Colorado; his daughter Katherine Townsend, her husband David, and grandchildren Nick, Ryan and Lana of Shawnee, Kansas; his brother Emanuel of Encino, California and his family; and his sister Magda Sipos of San Diego, California and her family. Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at: www.langelands.com . Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St. 343-1508