Janet M. Novak

On Christmas Day, 2021, Janet Marie Novak (Nee Pettersen), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend went home to be with the Lord at the age of 74. Janet was born on April 1, 1947 in Huntington, NY, shortly after her parents immigrated from Norway. They spent several years in Ocean Township, NJ before moving to Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. During her childhood in Bay Ridge, she was involved with her local Salvation Army youth group, where she played the trumpet. She graduated from Fort Hamilton High School and attended Brooklyn College while working for NY Bell in Manhattan. She started as a switchboard operator before moving into a management position.

Janet married Richard Novak in 1967, and they moved to Union, NJ, where they stayed to raise two daughters. She was very involved in the community, organizing her neighborhood block parties and faithfully serving at her church, the United Methodist Church of Union. She transitioned from NY Bell to Bell Atlantic before retiring.

Born on April Fool’s Day, Janet had a zest for life and a fantastic sense of humor! Her vibrant personality and laugh couldn't go unnoticed. She did everything with heart and embraced creativity as a way of life; she made the simple occasions feel out of the ordinary and made everyone around her feel special. The daughter of a chef, Janet loved to cook, especially her father’s recipes. She delighted friends and family with beautifully decorated tables filled with incredible food, and a warmth that made everyone feel welcome. She entertained us on the piano, accordion, and with her gift for storytelling.

Janet was kind and generous, and always willing to help someone in need, whether it be a meal, an errand or an elaborate banner for a celebration, she always had time for you. An artist and crafter, her creations were often on display at local craft fairs.

Ocean Grove was one of her most treasured places. She loved the ocean, traveling with her husband, and spending time with her daughters and grandson Danny.

Janet joins her mother Börgny, her father Thomas, her brother Leif and his wife Francis, and her son-in-law Daniel Havyar in Heaven. She is survived by her husband Richard Novak, her daughters Kristin Havyar (nee Novak) and Caryn Novak, grandson Daniel Havyar Jr., and granddog Oliver. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Salvation Army.

give.salvationarmy.org

A visitation for Janet will be held Tuesday, January 11, 2022 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Ave, Union, NJ 07083.

Church Service will be held Wednesday, January 12, 2021 at 5:00 PM at Calvary Lutheran Church, 108 Eastman Street, Cranford, NJ 07016.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.McCrackenFuneralHome.com for the Novak family.