William "Billy" J. Novak, 86 of Ely, died in the house he was born in on Wednesday, October 25, 2017.  Celebration of Life Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2017 at St. John Lutheran Church in Ely.  Burial will follow in Roger's Grove Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Friday, October 27, 2017 at Brosh Chapel & The Avacentre in Cedar Rapids, located at 2121 Bowling Street SW.

Billy was born December 30, 1930 in rural Ely, the son of William and Emma Bertha (Vornholt) Novak.  Billy graduated from Wilson High School in 1949. He honorably served his country in the Army National Guard.  Billy married Irene Klouda on October 14, 1954. Billy farmed near Ely for many years, retiring in 1996, and also worked at Wilson's for 16 years.  He was a member of Town & Country, CR Coin Club, Ely Odd Fellows Lodge, and the 2 Cylinder Club. Billy was also a Trustee for Putnam Twp. for many years. He enjoyed collecting antiques, going for local drives, going on tractor cades, and travelling. Above all, he loved spending time with family.

Billy is survived by his wife, Irene; his children, Rose (Mike) Dunham of Swisher, Sherry Novak of Rosemead, CA, William J. (Sheryl) Novak of Ely, Judy Franks of Mt. Vernon, Nancy (Dan) Schmuecker of Luzerne, and Dan (Kim) Novak of Ely; 12 grandchildren; and 20 great grandchildren; brother Edward (Joan) Novak of Alamo, TX; and his beloved dog Barney.

He was preceded in death by his parents and great grandson Gabriel Kline.

Memorials may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church in Ely or Hospice of Mercy.