FLORENCE — Charles (Chuck) John Novak, 87, of Florence, Alabama, passed peacefully with family at his side, on January 31, 2025, after succumbing to a lengthy battle with cancer.

Chuck was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Michael and Mary Agnes Novak. Chuck graduated from John Carroll University and pursued a distinguished career. He served as a Captain in the US Army, flying helicopters during the Vietnam War. Later, he became a private helicopter pilot for an air service in northern Ohio before establishing and operating his own audiology practice in Lakeland, Florida. He was an active 32° Mason, serving as the lodge's Worshipful Master. Additionally, Chuck was a member of the Rotary clubs in both Lakeland, FL, and Florence, AL. He also served on the Church Council at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Florence, AL.

Chuck was a devoted and loving husband. He enjoyed life in various places, including Illinois, Ohio, Florida, and Alabama, and enjoyed the opportunity to see other parts of the world during his military service.

Chuck and Judi had always envisioned a serene and fulfilling retirement after years of dedicated work. However, their plans took a compassionate turn when they decided to retire earlier than originally planned. The impetus for this significant life change was the desire to be near Judi's aging parents, Ralph and Eileen Lewis, during their senior years.

Chuck was preceded in death by his devoted wife of almost 50 years, Judi Richard-Novak, and his parents, Michael and Mary Agnes Novak.

He is survived by Judi's daughters, Toni Lee Lewis of Carbondale, IL, and Kerri Lynn McTigue of Bradenton, FL; son, David Richard of Ocala, FL; sisters-in-law, Janice Dean of Norwalk, OH, and Patricia Trickett of Norwalk, OH; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Harold and Tricia Lewis of Florence, AL.

Grandchildren include Toni Lee's children, Andrew Seaton, Britteney Bedell, and Joseph (Deann Lynn) Cresto; Kerri Lynn's children, Kurt (Stacy) Richard and Austin (Lauren) Drake; and David's child, Piper Bedell. Great-grandchildren include Kayla King, Ember Richard, Grayson Drake, Bryce Bedell, and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Renaissance of Florence, the nurses and staff at Mitchell-Hollingsworth, and the Hospice of North Alabama Care Team. To all whose dedication and care provided comfort and peace to Chuck during his final days, we thank you. Your professionalism and compassion made an immeasurable difference.

We also want to thank Pastor Lanier Nail of The Church of the Good Shepherd for his spiritual guidance of God's plans for tomorrow.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Rotary's "Shoals Scholar Dollar" program for FREE College Scholarships. www.shoalsscholardollars.com

Memorial service is to be held on Saturday March 1, at 1 PM, at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 2001 Cloyd Blvd. Florence, AL, Pastor Lanier Nail officiating.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.elkinsfuneralhome.com.