PIERRE, SD –

Robert Lee Novak, brother, uncle, and friend, left this world on January 5, 2024, at the age of 83, in his hometown of Pierre, South Dakota. A Memorial Celebraiton of Life will be held at 10:00am, Friday, January 26, 2024 at Feigum Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.

Born on September 17, 1940, to Frank and Velma Novak, Robert, known as Bob or Abe, was the fourth child in a bustling household of twelve siblings. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and the simple joys of living close to the land he loved.

Bob’s journey began in the rolling plains of South Dakota, where from the tender age of ten, he embraced a life of labor that was both fulfilling and character-building. He worked for local farmers and ranchers, including Dick Williams, Larry Donovan, and Earl Sonnenschein (among others), cultivating a deep appreciation for nature and the satisfaction of a day’s work well done. His spirited nature and handy skills were evident in everything he touched, from the fields he tended to the livestock he cared for.

On September 11, 1970, Bob’s heart found its match when he united in marriage with Betty Ann Flansburg in Blunt, South Dakota. Together, they shared a life built on the shared joys of their rural roots. In 1981, Bob began a new chapter as an employee of the Pierre School District. For many years, he dedicated himself to maintenance and custodial work, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for the community’s children. His commitment to his work was unwavering, and he retired with the respect and gratitude of those who knew him.

Bob is survived by siblings: Beverely Altenberg of Gillette, Wyoming; Marie Lovell and Steven Novak, of Pierre; Richard Novak of Gillette, Wyoming; and Donald Novak of Wessington Springs. His life was enriched by the bonds he shared with his in-laws, nieces, nephews, and the extended family members who will miss his presence dearly. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, sister Betty Palmer and her husband John Palmer, sister Mary Bingen, brother Rudy Novak, sister Linda Styles and her husband Donald, brother William Novak and his wife Irene, sister Sandra Leonard, sister-in-law Diane Novak,nephews Larry Altenberg, Frank Gilmore and Dwayne Gilmore.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a memorial established to benefit the Buchanan School playgound equipment fund. Contributions may be directed to: “Pierre School District – Bob Novak Memorial”.

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