Gilbert W. Novak

In the early morning hours of Friday, January 31, 2025, Gilbert Wayne Novak, 86 of Palatine, passed away peacefully while holding hands with loved ones. Visitation will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the Funeral Service begins at 12:00 PM (Noon). Interment with military honors will follow at Bohemian National Cemetery in Chicago.

Family and friends may view the live streaming funeral service by clicking Mr. Gilbert W. Novak's Funeral Service.

Gilbert was born on Friday, October 14, 1938, in Chicago, IL, the only child of Charles and Emily (Doubek) Novak. From the start, he was full of life and energy, never shy and always eager to make new friends. He had cousins spread across the country, from Pisek, North Dakota, to his own neighborhood in Berwyn, and he cherished those bonds. A natural extrovert, Gil was deeply involved in various organizations throughout his life—whether it was the Cub and Boy Scouts of America, the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL), the Chess and Checkers Club, or playing baseball. These early passions shaped the man he would become.

Gifted with a strong intellect, Gil headed to Purdue University in 1956, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. He left behind countless memories from his time there—photos of his adventures, but in 1958, his journey took a turn. He took a break from college to travel, visiting family, camping in the great outdoors, and marveling at the Statue of Liberty in New York City. The sense of adventure that he carried with him remained a constant throughout his life.

In 1961, Gil enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served as an Armor Crewman at Fort Knox. He earned a Good Conduct Medal and was honorably discharged on November 30, 1963. Afterward, he returned to Chicago, where fate led him to meet Judith A. May. Their love was quick, deep, and lasting. On Leap Day in 1964, they eloped, and later that year, they celebrated their marriage with family and friends on August 16th. Their bond was strong, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and three beautiful children.

Despite the busy life raising a young family, Gil never stopped learning. In 1974, he returned to school to finish his degree and in 1976, graduated with a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family—first for Western Electric, then AT&T, and ultimately retiring from Motorola in 2003. But retirement didn’t mean slowing down.

Gil found a new passion in Geocaching. He logged 5,963 finds, often with his children and grandchildren by his side. His love of the outdoors, combined with the companionship of his beloved Great Dane, Dairy, made every adventure a cherished memory.

Gil and Judy spent their retirement years together, carefree and content. Their home was filled with the joy of family, the peacefulness of birdwatching from their backyard, and the joy of traveling and making new memories. They also found great joy in attending Immanuel Lutheran Church, where Gilbert served as an Usher. He took his duties to heart, always greeting churchgoers with a warm smile and ensuring everything ran smoothly. His commitment to the church reflected his deep faith and love for his community. After more than 50 years of unwavering love, Gil’s world shifted with Judy’s passing in 2020.

Yet, even in the face of his own challenges, Gil remained strong. He had already conquered prostate cancer, but as time passed, signs of dementia began to appear. With the help of devoted caregivers, Gil remained at his home in Palatine for a while, but as his needs grew, it was time for a new chapter. In 2023, he moved in with family in South Carolina. There, he continued to shine, making lasting friendships at adult day care and later at a memory care facility. His caregivers, often calling him “their favorite,” were quick to mention his radiant smile and the warmth he brought to everyone around him. His impact, even in such a short time, spoke volumes about the incredible person he was.

Gilbert’s 86 years were filled with accomplishments, but it’s the joy he shared that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His infectious laugh, his smile that could light up any room, and the kindness he showed everyone he met will never be forgotten. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit remains—a lasting presence in the lives of those who loved him.

He is survived by his children, Robin (Neal) Tucker, Keith (Debra) Novak, and Jeffrey (Maura) Novak; his grandchildren, Casey Novak, Scott Tucker, Jordan Tucker, Corey Novak, Cara Novak, Elizabeth Novak, and Delia Novak; and his great-grandchildren, Lelia Carlisle, Liam Tucker, Riley Novak, Lance Tucker, Rowan Tucker, Raif Tucker, Catalina Tucker, Camila Tucker, Emrys Tucker, Eleri Tucker, and Marcelina Tucker.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Judith A (May) Novak; his parents, Charles and Emily (Doubek) Novak; and his great-grandson, Calan Tucker.

In lieu of flowers or trees, donations in memory of Gilbert Novak may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or, for animal lovers, please donate to the ASPCA.