A Life Filled with Love, Adventure, and Quiet Strength
November 2, 1942 ? April 10, 2024
Robert C. Nowak, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a man of deep faith, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2024, at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont. He was 81 years old.
Born on November 2, 1942, in Dunkirk, NY, to the late Conrad and Virginia Nowak, Bob grew up with a zest for life and a thirst for knowledge. After graduating from Dunkirk High School, he earned a degree in Construction Management at Erie County Technical Institute in Buffalo, NY. This path led him to Vermont, where he played a key role in the construction of Interstate 91 and Jay Peak Ski Resort. In the early 1980’s, Bob left his position with Don Hamlin Engineering and embarked on a celebrated 40-year career as a financial advisor with New York Life and co-founder, along with his wife Pat, of Nowak and Nowak Financial Services. He worked tirelessly to provide guidance and support to his clients, helping them navigate the complexities in areas such as college financial planning, retirement planning, and life insurance. His expertise and trustworthy nature made him the go-to person for many, who would often say, "Let's just ask Bob. He'll know what to do." People trusted him implicitly, and Bob's commitment to his clients' well-being earned him a reputation as a trusted confidant and friend to those he served.
Bob met and married the love of his life, Pat Nowak in 1982. They blended their families - Bob's two sons and Pat's three children - creating a home filled with love and countless adventures. With five children coming and going under one roof, there was never a dull moment, and Bob embraced every minute of it. He found joy in cooking for his family, with his famous goulash and evenings spent around the table playing cards being cherished memories. As a quiet and gentle leader in the home, he provided unwavering support and guidance to his children, always with a touch of his signature dry humor. Bob was immensely proud of each of their accomplishments, both professionally and as parents themselves.
Bob was a man of varied interests, finding delight in the roar of engines at car races, the soaring beauty of air shows, and the rich history of World War II. His curiosity and zest for life were evident in the way he relished each new experience. Even in high school, Bob's light feet and graceful moves earned him a reputation as an excellent dancer. He and Pat shared a passion for dancing and lit up the dance floor together, even winning a few contests along the way.
When not working, Bob traveled extensively to destinations like Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, and Paris. Whether sharing a military cruise on an aircraft carrier with his son Richard, attending his children’s school events or making countless visits to see his thirteen grandchildren, time spent with his family brought him deep joy. The preciousness of these moments was never lost on him, and he shed happy tears gladly, and often.
Tragically, Bob lost his beloved wife Pat in 2018, and he missed her deeply every day since her passing. In 2023, Bob was delighted to welcome his first great-grandchild, James Peter, born to his granddaughter Katie Nowak, daughter of his son Peter Nowak. The opportunity to meet and spend time with James Peter brought a special happiness to Bob in his final year.
A true pillar of his community, Bob tirelessly dedicated himself to bettering the lives of those around him. He devoted countless hours to community service, coached his boys' hockey teams, and was actively involved in local politics as a member of the South Burlington Republican Committee. Bob also served on the Board of Civil Authority, working diligently at the polls to ensure fair and transparent elections. As a steadfast supporter of the Air National Guard, he recognized the importance of their role in protecting our nation.
Bob's faith was an integral part of his life, and he was a devoted member of the parish at St. Francis Xavier Church. His commitment to his faith served as a guiding light throughout his life, providing him with strength, purpose, and comfort.
Bob Nowak lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures. His warm smile, kind heart, steady strength, and unfailing sense of humor will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bob is survived by his sons Richard Nowak of South Burlington, VT, Peter Nowak of Mansfield, MA, Robert F. McCarthy (Liz) of Ridgewood, NJ, and his two daughters Christine Winters (Peter) of Marion, MA, and Alison Cossette (Trygve) of Williston, VT. He is also survived by his sister Joyce Koch (Fritz) of Williamsburg, VA, thirteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild: Emily and Dan McCarthy, Thomas and Julia Winters, Thor and Lachlan Cossette, Alexander, Alyssa and Katrina Nowak, Katie, Brian, Molly and Erin Nowak, and great-grandson James Peter.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 17 at 11 am at St. Francis Xavier Church, 3 St. Peter Street, Winooski, VT. Interment will follow at Resurrection Park Cemetery, South Burlington, VT. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, April 16, 4-7pm at Ready's Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at UVM Medical Center, McClure 6, for their compassionate care of Bob in his final days.
The arrangements are in care of the Ready Funeral and Cremation Services. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneralcom.
Posted online on April 13, 2024
Published in Burlington Free Press
