Ervin Peter Novak

He served in the U.S. Navy as a Petty Officer during World War II in the Pacific Theater of Operations. He fought in the Philippine Seas, Saipan and Tinian Islands, and later sailed to Tokyo Bay after the Japanese surrender.

Ervin moved to Phoenix in 1948 with his new bride, Elizabeth. He first worked for Salt River Project while attending night school at Phoenix College. He later worked as an insurance agent for a number of years before changing careers and working for Maricopa County Animal and Rabies Control as a clerk, where he retired in 1984.

Ervin most enjoyed family get togethers, playing cards, Scrabble and doing puzzles, vacations with family and friends, bowling, Diamondbacks baseball and reading his Bible. His love of others, his compassion, his smile and cheer will be greatly missed.

Ervin was predeceased by his beloved wife of 54 years, Elizabeth "Betty" Novak in 2002.

Ervin is survived by his children, Gregory (Linda), Robert (Birgit), Mary Schreyer (Edward), and Anna Reinking (Daniel), his grandchildren, Vanessa Spray (Andrew), Eric (Deanna), and Briana Miller (Erik), and his great grandchildren, Isobelle, Allison and Oliver. He is also survived by his sister, Eileen Cernetic, a special niece, Sharon Welch (Steven) and special friend Paul Loraso (Debbie), as well as numerous other family members and friends.

Ervin loved the Lord and is happily now with Elizabeth and many family members (and his favorite little fur-friend, Otis).

Memorial services and interment will be private.

Donations can be made to Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Arizona, or Home 'Fur' Good, a "no-kill" animal rescue and shelter, Phoenix, Arizona.