Rusty Eugene Novak

Rusty grew up in Michigan City, Indiana. In 1972, Rusty joined the US Navy. He attended bootcamp in San Diego at the Naval Training Center and became a Radioman. He was stationed on the USS Mount Vernon(LSD 39), USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3), and the USS Gridley (CG-21). He participated in Operation Frequent Wind (the evacuation of Saigon) in 1975. While in the US Navy, his duty stations included Subic Bay, Philippines, Washington D.C., San Diego, CA., and Bremerton, WA. After 20 years of serving in the US Navy Rusty retired and later began a new career at the Veterans Hospital in La Jolla, CA.

In 1973, Rusty and Annie had their first date in the Philippines and later married on July 11, 1974. They eventually settled in San Diego, CA.

Rusty is survived by his wife of 49 years Annie, sons Aubrey & Anthony, daughter-in-laws Naomi & Michele, grandchildren Malaya, Regan, Isabel, Marek, & Ellis, sisters Loretta, Henrietta, brother Randy and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Rusty was preceded in death by his mother Lucille, father Lee, & sister Dawn.

Rusty enjoyed spending time at the beach. His favorite places to vacation were Indiana, Philippines and Hawaii. He enjoyed listening to live music and attending concerts featuring The Platters, Olivia Newton John, The Rolling Stones, Journey, In-Sync and Bruno Mars.

Visitation for Rusty will be held Wednesday, August 30, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121. A funeral mass will be held Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8200 Gold Coast Drive, San Diego, CA 92126. A graveside service will occur Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 1:15 PM to 1:45 PM at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sorrentovalleychapel.com for the Novak family.

Rusty was a dedicated financial supporter of the San Diego Food Bank. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rusty's name.