Joseph John Novakoski

Born to Anna and Joseph G. Novakoski on November 30, 1944, Joe grew up in New York and New Jersey, where he met the love of his life, Beverly. After high school, he enlisted in the Navy and served his country. Following his military service, Joe pursued a career in engineering and machining. However, what truly defined him was his creativity and craftsmanship, a gift inherited from his parents—his mother, a skilled seamstress, and his father, a perpetual tinkerer. It’s a passion he also passed on to his own children who all share the love of creating and building. Throughout his life, Joe was never without a project. From painting to restoring antique cars to designing websites for his high school class and, most recently, crafting intricate structures out of popsicle sticks. His hands were never idle.

Joe was a devoted husband, and his love for Beverly was beyond measure. The two were inseparable throughout their 60 years of marriage until her passing in July. Through better and worse, richer and poorer, sickness and health—they endured it all together. Joe was a proud father and grandfather to his three children (Yohn, Paul, and Jennifer), as well as his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (Damen, Brandon, Bryce, Jordan, Blake, Joseph, Joey, and Jace). He also deeply cherished his “baby” brother, Brian, with whom he developed a close and supportive relationship as they grew older.

Joe's wit, artistry, and quirky charm will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A funeral service at Florida National Cemetery and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh.