Maria Novak

Maria Isabel Novak, 88, died Friday, January 30th, 2009 after a brief illness. Born Maria Isabel Clementino on December 19, 1920 in Gustine, California, Maria grew up with her four younger brothers on a dairy farm. Her parents continued their dairy enterprise when the family moved to the Reclamation Ranch on Highway 37 in Marin County. Maria married Joseph Rocha of Sonoma County in the previous location of Our Lady of Loretto on Grant Avenue in Novato which is now The Cacti Restaurant. Maria had lunch at the Cacti every day of the week, often accompanied by her many friends. In 1945 as a single mother, Maria opened Maria's Dress Shop in Novato. In 1948 Maria had a fashion show attended by many Marin County residents, including her future husband, John Novak. Maria and John were credited with building much of the affordable housing in Novato and Petaluma in the 1950's. Maria was very proud of her involvement in the business, especially driving the 1 ½ ton truck on the narrow winding roads to Cazadero to pick up the lumber. Maria and John divorced in 1961. Maria settled in Novato but traveled the world. She enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially in British Columbia and Alaska. For many years, her landscaping consisted of hundreds of meticulously maintained roses. Maria is survived by her three children, Joan Rocha St. Clair of Beverly Hills, sons John Novak of Rohnert Park and Jeffrey Novak of Novato. She will be missed by her grandchildren Jennifer Codington of Petaluma, Holly and Taylor Novak of Novato, and Ryan and Kristen Novak of Rohnert Park. She is also survived by her great grandchildren, Avery and Jayden Codington and many beloved nieces and nephews. The family wishes to acknowledge their appreciation of the constant devotion and support of David and Janice Colclough and Korey Yamagata. She will be greatly missed by her many friends, young and old. Visitation will be at Keaton's Redwood Chapel on Tuesday, February 3rd, from 1:00-4:00 PM, followed by a funeral mass held at Our Lady of Loretto in Novato on Wednesday, February 4th at 10:30 AM, followed by a celebration of Maria's life at the Elks Club in Petaluma. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity or The Hanna Boys Center www.hannacenter.org .