Janet Novak

Janet J. Novak, 92, Fargo, ND passed away on August 12, 2014 at Sanford Health Continuing Care Center, Mandan.  She was born on September 25, 1921 in Lankin, ND to Joseph and Josephine Brodina.  She grew up in Lankin and attended school in Walsh County.

On June 17, 1942 Janet was united in marriage to Sylvester “Bud” Novak at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lankin.  The couple then moved to Missouri where Bud was stationed in the Army.  They lived in several places around the country before settling in Fargo in 1945.  Janet and Bud made their home in Fargo and raised their four children.  In their later years, the couple enjoyed traveling, and Janet greatly enjoyed the cruises.

In her early years, she was a member of the Bill Brodina Orchestra.  She continued to play the accordion for many years and enjoyed dancing to polka and waltz music. Janet loved to cook, especially traditional Bohemian foods.  She also had a large garden and she often sold the produce to friends and neighbors.  Janet took great pride in making the holidays memorable for her loved ones.

She is survived by her son, Ken (Carolyn) Novak, Bismarck; daughter, Anita Novak; daughter-in-law, Nancy Novak, Fargo; grandchildren, Nathan (Anet) Novak, Travis (Ashley) Novak, Heather (Tim) Rahn, Seth (Heather) Novak, and Rachel (Jonathan Spurr) Novak; and 8 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Bud; her sons, Joe and Tom Novak; and sister, Georgia.