Joseph Novak

Joseph Anthony Novak (July 13, 1947 – August 10, 2025)

Joseph Novak passed away in Waterloo. He is survived by his sister Judy (Ronald Nowak), his niece Terri Siggins (Michael) and their children Ryan and Trent, and by his nephew Michael (Sue). He is predeceased by his parents Joseph and Mary Novak, and by his godmother Aunt Gigi Skrzekut.

Joe grew up in Chicago and went on to earn a PhD in philosophy at the University of Notre Dame before coming to Saskatoon in the mid-1970s to teach at St. Thomas More College (University of Saskatchewan). In the mid-1980s he moved on to the University of Waterloo where he taught until his retirement in 2013.

Joe’s erudition, his capacity for languages, and his knowledge of classical Greek texts and Christian scripture were legendary. His family cherish him as a wonderful son, a loyal brother, and a great uncle; his wide circle of friends and students remember fondly his mischievous wit, his gentle smile, and how graciously he shared his time (and chocolates, preferably Swiss) with all. Joe’s eclectic interests ranged from organ music to action and sci-fi movies, from ballet to fantasy fiction (first and foremost The Lord of the Rings), from Europe’s grand cathedrals to southern Ontario’s European bakeries and delis. Sustaining him throughout his life was his deep and abiding faith in the risen Christ.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Louis Roman Catholic Church in Waterloo on Tuesday, August 19 at 10am with Fr. Phil Reilly C.R. presiding. Burial to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Henry Walser Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Bible Society would be appreciated.