Joan M. (Austin) Novak

Joan M. Novak

December 9, 1933 - April 28, 2026

Joan M. Novak, 92, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly in her sleep, in the comfort of her own home on April 28, 2026.

She was born on December 9,1933 in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of J.W. and Florence (Iverson) Austin. 

Joan graduated from Euclid High School.

She married John W. Novak, who preceded her in death on August 17, 2015. She retired from Hubbel, working as a truck driver and in the paint shop.  

Her life was filled with the love of raising and breeding Arabian horses,  most especially including the many years of taking her daughter to horse shows with their own horses. She also enjoyed trail rides, both locally and out of state with family & friends. Her love of dogs was ongoing with Huskies, though she was most fond of Dobermans, with her most recent companion of 10.5 years, Jordan, who recently preceded her in death.  A fan of the Guardians, O.S.U football, anything horse-racing.and ex-Cleveland Browns. Joan was fitness-minded; including cycling (DELMAC) & competitive running. She graciously welcomed & hosted many family gatherings including clam bakes, holidays, preparing delicious meals and new recipes.  An avid reader and enjoyed listening to music, including opera, gospel and polka tunes. Her faith was strong and she was a member of New Lyme Baptist Church, accepting many roles of service there over the years.  

Joan is survived by her loving children:  Lee (Brenda), Katherine Camp, Charles, David (Dianne); her step-children: Catherine, Chester, Christine & Curtis; her 10 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild; her sister Beverly Cowgill; and her many nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband John, her brother Chuck, her sister-in-law Carol, her brother-in-law Wayne, her son-in-law Tim Camp; and her step-children: Chuck, Clark, and Clayton.

Funeral service will be held at New Lyme Baptist Church, 1280 Dodgeville Road, Rome, Ohio  on Tuesday, May 12th at 11:00 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to New Lyme Baptist Church or Hand Me Down Dobes (www.hmdd.org).

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