Walter M. Novak, Jr.

ROTTERDAM- It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Walter M. Novak, Jr.  a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, who left this world peacefully on December 25, 2024 after a courageous health battle. He was 80 years old.

Born to Walter and Frances Novak in Hudson, NY, Walter spent much of his childhood on the basketball court, becoming a standout player at St. Mary’s Academy in Hudson and at Paul Smith’s College. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army and served with honor in the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. Following his military service, Walter began a long and rewarding career as insurance administrator with Travelers Insurance and the Business Council of New York, making lifelong friends along the way.

Walter was a past president of the Rotterdam Lions Club, a communicant of St. Gabriel’s Church, a member of Pinehaven Country Club and a member of several veterans organizations.

Walt was a naturally talented athlete. His basketball career was followed by social and competitive tennis and racquetball play, after which his passion for golf was sparked. Ironically, golf was the sport that challenged him like no other, but he played for the love of the game and the camaraderie, laughs and friendship that it sustained. He spent some of his happiest days on the course at Pinehaven Country Club where, though his performance was erratic, he treasured the rounds played with his friends the ROB’s.

His calm demeanor on the green mirrored the steady and easygoing attitude he brought to every aspect of his life. Walt’s quiet strength, generosity and sense of humor impacted all who knew him. He faced life’s challenges with remarkable resilience and remained a source of positivity, even in the face of illness.

Despite his love of golf, his family and friends were more important to him. He was a dedicated husband to Patricia Ronsani Novak for 57 years, a devoted father to Alessandra (David) Hawthorne, a doting grandfather to Tess and Mitchell Hawthorne and a loving brother to Carolyn Stark. He is survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Walter was predeceased by his stepbrothers, Donald Kirker and Richard Kirker.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 11:30 am at St. Gabriel’s Church 3040 Hamburg St. Rotterdam. Relatives and friends are invited and may also visit with Walter’s family at church prior to the Mass from 10:30 to 1130 am. Interment will be in Hudson at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to St. Gabriel’s Church, Dana Farber Cancer Institute or the VFW.