Robert Joseph Nowak

Robert J. Nowak of Hastings, formerly of Milwaukee, WI, died peacefully Monday, November 20, 2017 at Augustana Care Center in Hastings, Minnesota. Robert Joseph was born March, 24, 1936 to Joseph Nowak and Mary (Viduski) Nowak in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where he grew up and also graduated high school. Robert lived in the Milwaukee area most of his life. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and served 39 years both active duty and National Guard. He was discharged as a Chief Master Sergeant. Robert was a foster care provider for infants and special needs children for many years in the Milwaukee area. Robert was married to Karen (Peterson) Blackstad on July 7, 2006 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Hastings. He loved to fish and go camping and also enjoyed taking bus trips with Karen around the country. Robert was a lifelong Packer fan. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Michael and an infant daughter Lisa Marie. Robert is survived by his wife, Karen Blackstad of Hastings; his 6 daughters, Theresa, Karen, Roberta, Mary, Christine and Dawn; 5 step daughters, Lori, Kimberly, Tamara, Kerri and Kristi; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; by his sisters, Carol and Kathy and his brothers, Donnie and Raymond. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, November 27, 2017 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 15th Street West, Hastings, Minnesota with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment with Military Honors provided by the Hastings VFW Lyle Russell Post 1210, will follow at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Cemetery in Hastings. Visitation will be Monday at church 1 hour prior to the funeral. Arrangements are being completed by Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services of Hastings