We Remember

NOVAKOWSKI, David

January 1, 1970 — January 1, 1970

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Dad and Grandpa, David Novakowski on February 17, 2020 at the young age of 64.

David was born February 10, 1956 in Vernon BC. He attended St. James Elementary, moved on to Fulton Jr. High, and then graduated from VSS in 1974. It was there that he met his high school sweetheart to later become his wife the love his life, Zena. David and Zena were married September 10, 1977 and were able to celebrate 42 ½ years of love. During this time, they would welcome two beautiful daughters: Lisa and Jenny.

David worked with his dad at NOCA Dairy  delivering milk, and later drive milk tankers picking up milk from local dairy farms. From there his career took him to work for TOLKO Industries starting as a forklift operator to later become a divisional shipping manager contributing a total of 39 years to the company; David retired from TOLKO in 2016.

David had a few passions in life. He was a loyal fan through thick and thin to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Miami Dolphins. He also loved to collect diecast cars, loved automobiles, gardening and travel.  He was easy to please. His true place of happiness was Maui. Here he would take his family for vacations and would continue to go with Zena every other year to make memories and call it his second home.

It is in Maui, his paradise, that he is now lounging in his beach chair, waves caressing his feet, and Aloha Juice in hand that he is free of pain and is finally at peace.

David is survived by his wife Zena; daughters Lisa (Eric), and Jenny (Tom); and grandson Lincoln.

The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the nurses at the cancer clinic at Vernon Jubilee Hospital and the palliative nurses from Interior Health and Kelowna Hospice whom he touched with his positive attitude and infectious smile.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family also requests in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to BC Cancer Foundation, www.bccancer.bc.ca and the Kelowna Hospice, hospicehousekelowna.com.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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BC Cancer Foundation and/or the Kelowna Hospice Link: www.bccancer.bc.ca, hospicehousekelowna.com

 


 


Condolences

  • Joann Gilmore says:

    Our deepest Condolences Zena!!

  • Sherry Kineshanko says:

    Sending tight healing hugs, much love and prayers. ‘ Uncle Dave’ was always so kind and supportive of the the kids ! Sports , school and any of their interests. His huge welcoming smile and big hugs will be missed by all of us ❤️

  • Marianne Salewski says:

    Sending you my deepest sympathy,,thinking of you with much love and prayers…
    With love to you all

    Marianne

  • Nella and Sam Banducci says:

    Saddenedto hear of David’s passing. Sending our love and prayers

  • Tim & Gail says:

    As you know, we loved you both and are sooo sad that David has passed, way too soon. He was a wonderful neighbour, we will always smile at silly memories. Really don’t know how to comfort you, but really hope you find funny, happy, sad memories that make you smile and feel close as a family. You were there for him right to the end, he was a good man and leaves a great legacy!

  • Murray Clare says:

    Dear Zena & family, my sincerest regrets reading of David’s recent passing. Always enjoyed brief visits with him at VDCU’s various get togethers. Our thoughts are with you and your family during your time of sorrow. Murray & Heather

  • Pat Rusk says:

    Zena – I’m very sorry to hear about Dave 🙁 My deepest sympathies. Take care. Patti

  • Simo Korpisto says:

    Please accept our sincere condolences Zena. Simo & Betty.

  • Les Bowman says:

    Sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. Remembering his smile and daily chats around the coffee machine. Condolences to Dave’s family. Les.

  • Frank Martina says:

    Zena…I am at a loss for words. I had no idea of Dave’s battle with cancer. You are in m y thoughts and I wish you strength. It was such a pleasure to get to know you both…The man with the smile that would light up the sky will truly be missed. RIP my friend. Zena…time will heal…but never totally…I know…cancer claimed my wife at age 49 …..that was 23 years ago

  • Clemence Bedard says:

    It is with much sadness that I read of Dave’s passing, the love of your life Zena. My thoughts are with you and your family. Big hugs

  • Keith and Maureen Rydings says:

    Zena and family…This comes as a shock to us as he was too young. There are no words I am aware of that will bring you and your so grown up girls total comfort. The much used “time will heal” is certainly true but never completely. I know he will forever be in your hearts. Our love, prayers are with all of
    you and at some point if you feel up to it, Maureen and I would love to take you out for lunch. Let us know.

  • Faye & Merv Viergutz says:

    Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy on your loss Zena and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless

  • Ken Fenner says:

    I have such fond memories of Dave. We worked together for many years. Dave was a happy, focused, getter-done kind of guy. We shared many laughs together and even when the pressure of work was on, Dave kept a positive attitude and always had a smile. Dave was a good friend and I am lucky to have known him and to have worked closely with him.
    I am truly sorry for your loss Zena. I wish you and your family a time of quiet healing. Cherishing good memories should help, and I’m sure there are many. God Bless. Ken

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