OBITUARY

Lisa Marie Nowak

October 20, 1961 – January 7, 2021

Lisa Marie Nowak, 59, of Oakland Township, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 7th, surrounded by family after a brave fight with pancreatic cancer.

After growing up in Harper Woods and attending high school at Grosse Pointe North Lisa moved to Livonia and graduated from Livonia Stevenson High School in 1979. She attended the University of Michigan where she earned a bachelors in accounting in 1983. She started her career in public accounting working for Ernst & Whinney (now EY), where she became a Certified Public Accountant and was promoted to manager. She left to join Pepsi Co. as a finance analyst when she and Greg were married. (Spouses were not allowed to work in the same public accounting firm!) Her role with Pepsi led to a position with the Soft Drink Association of Michigan, where she worked as a consultant until her passing.

Lisa will be remembered for her generosity, bright smile, strength, poise, beauty and determination. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her children and granddaughter, Norah, who held a very special place in her heart. Lisa took on numerous volunteer roles throughout her life and was dedicated to numerous philanthropic causes including the Belle Isle Conservancy, Detroit Historical Society, and Ascension Providence Foundation. She was also a passionate advocate for education and was a long serving board member and president of the Rochester School Board, and was also active with the Rochester PTA.

She is survived by her husband of 32 years Gregory Nowak, her son Ian Nowak, her daughter Erica Manzella and husband Jimmy; her granddaughter Norah Hunter, her mother Barbara Wade, her sister Linda Kozlowski and husband Jeff, and her brother Alan Japes.

A celebration of Lisa’s life will be planned in the spring or summer, details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Belle Isle Conservancy.

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Lisa Marie Nowak

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Terry & Mary Daniels

January 19, 2021

Dear Greg, Ian and Erica,

We are so sorry to hear of Lisa's passing. We have so many great memories of this sweet and crazy lady and hope that your memories will give you some peace at this difficult time.

Sara Kmiec

January 19, 2021

Lisa brought a richness to the lives of those around her and amongst many other accomplishments raised two wonderful children I have the privilege of knowing. Radiant would be the best word to describe her as she could always light up a room with her smile and the warmth of her personality. I never knew of her battle and I think that is a testimony to her generosity with her time and love. Being as remarkable as she was, she left a great impression on so many people - she will be missed.

Brad Danton

January 19, 2021

Greg and family,

So sorry for your loss. Lisa was such an intelligent and giving person. I am certain that she will be missed by so many.

I wish you peace and comfort.
Brad Danton

Kathy Aro

January 17, 2021

When I think of Lisa, I see her bright smile, excitement and passion while pointing out all there is to know about Belle Isle and Detroit's waterfront. Her warmth and compassion will be missed by all.

Kathy Aro

Randy Paschke

January 17, 2021

Greg, I was surprised and saddened when I heard about Lisa's passing. She was outgoing, fun-loving and exceptionally friendly and welcoming every time I saw her. I know she will be missed by many. My sympathy to you and your family for your loss .
Randy Paschke

Elana Rugh

January 17, 2021

Greg, the whole Detroit Historical Family shares our heartbreak at Lisa's passing. She was a treasured volunteer for our organization and we will miss her so much. Sending our love and prayers to you and your family.

Jennifer Jenkins-Sweet

January 16, 2021

Greg and Family I’m truly sorry about passing of dear Lisa. Remembering the fun times at DYC on dead end dock. You all will be in our Prayers ,Peace be with you all. God Bless Jennifer Jenkins and Martin Ingle

Kris Van der Ploeg

January 15, 2021

I loved and admired Lisa for her strength, bravery, intelligence, resilience, and ability to hold onto her sense of humor under any circumstances. Her special spirit, laughter, and essential Lisa-ness helped to keep me grounded so many times during my life. I was honored and blessed that she was my friend. I’ll miss her so much. I hold all of you, the entire Japes-Nowak clan, in my heart and my prayers.

Pamela Brown

January 15, 2021

Greg,
I am so very sorry. My prayers are with you, the kids, and your families. I remember Lisa always smiling and laughing. Hugs.
Glad to have seen you not so long ago at the Shinola event.
Pam

Lisa Howze

January 15, 2021

My heart goes out to you, Greg Nowak, in the loss of your lovely wife, Lisa. I always enjoyed seeing and talking to her at each of the MICPA and Accounting Aid Society events. You were always sure to introduce us, as if it were the first time. Who could ever forget another "Lisa?" :-)

I remember when I had returned from Egypt 2 years ago, wearing a necklace with a gold cartouche that spelled my name, "Lisa," in hieroglyphics. I shared that fact with Lisa, who was admiring the necklace. Since it represented her name, too, she felt it was only appropriate for me to 'give' it to her. We both smiled at the idea. It was a special moment.

May she rest in Heavenly peace, and the family receive comfort during your time of loss.

With deepest sympathy,

Lisa Howze

FROM THE FAMILY