Joseph V. Novak

Novak, Joseph; age 87; of Hastings passed away in the early morning of 11/28/07 surrounded by loving family. Survived by wife Delia; children Kate (Al Denson), Tom, Maureen (Gene Nelson), Kevin (Marie), John, and Pat; 9 loving grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; sister Antoinette Hokkanen. After graduating early from Ely H.S. , he attended Macalester College. In 1942 he joined the navy and served on a sub-chaser during WWII and took part in five landings, including Omaha Beach on D-Day. Settling in Shakopee with his wife Delia, he began a long career as a teacher of Social Studies and athletic coach in football, basketball and baseball, which he continued at Hastings H.S. Mr. Novak is a former Hastings City Council member and served as the Secretary of the State DFL Party and as Commander of the American Legion Post #47. He served as the State Liquor Commissioner and President of the National Conference of State Liquor Administrators. He set a precedent in enforcing civil rights by denying a private club their license for refusing to admit an African American. He will be dearly missed. The family would like to thank home health care specialists Gustafo, Lisa, Kathy and nurse Sue. The Funeral Service will be held 10:00 AM Monday, December 3rd at ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2035 W. 15th Street in Hastings, with Fr. James Perkl officiating. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. The visitation will be held at the CATURIA-SMIDT FUNERAL HOME, 201 E. 7th St. Hastings from 4-8 PM Sunday and 1 hour prior to the funeral at church.(651) 437-9419