Elaine M. Nowak, 72, of Gaylord, passed away peacefully at home, her favorite place to be surrounded by family, on Thursday, April 22, 2021, after her battle with cancer.
She was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, on February 17, 1949.
Elaine attended grade school in Bradwell, SK., in a two-room schoolhouse. At the age of seven, she moved to Detroit with her parents, Rodney and Elinore (Hamelef) Wegren.
On July 17, 1971, Elaine married her amazing and loving husband, Gabriel. During their 50 wonderful years of marriage, they made Gaylord their home.
Elaine worked at the Otsego County Library for 20 years where she was a friend to many co-workers and patrons alike. Her hobbies included knitting, which was her passion, genealogy, scrapbooking, and reading. She loved camping with family and friends. She wore many hats, most of which she knitted.
She attended St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, in Gaylord, MI, for more than 40 years.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband, Gabriel; her children who adored her, Kristi (Matt) Dipzinski, Jeff (Kelli) Nowak, Jenny (Steve) Dipzinski, and Betsy (Jeff) Hopp; grandchildren, Kathleen (Tim) Barnard, Erica Raymond, Andy Basinski, Logan Brent, Luke Dipzinski, Grace Dipzinski, and Teagan Hopp; her best friend and sister, Ethel Hicks; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the family is planning a private Celebration of Life.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 525 Weiss St., Gaylord, MI 49735.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
Visit www.nelsonsfuneralhome.com to post online condolences.
22 comments on “Elaine Nowak”
I am deeply saddened to hear of Elaine. She was a truly lovely person and always fun to talk to. I got to know at the library and always enjoyed our visits. My most sincere and heartfelt condolences.
Thank you so much Don for your kind words. I know she enjoyed visiting with you also when you came into the library. -Jen
Elaine was a joy to work with at the library, always cheerful and she loved to laugh. She was so cleaver with her computer skills. I will sorely miss her.
Thank you so much Kathy for your beautiful words. I know she enjoyed working with you also. -Jen
Jenny, I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was always my favorite lady to speak to at the library. I’m praying peace for all of you.
Thank you so much Kelly for the kind words and prayers. We appreciate you so much.
Gabby and family, Don and I extend our sympathy to you at this difficult time. For many years, Elaine and I would chat at the library and on Facebook. Our families go way back, and we are very sorry for your loss. Don and Linda
Thank you both so much for the beautiful message. I will make sure to pass this on to my dad and our family.
Jenny and Steve,
We are so sorry for your loss. I recognize your mom from the library! She was kind and patient.
God bless your family,
Ellie and John Panci
Thank you so much Ellie and John for your sweet words and prayers. We miss her so much, but are grateful that she is no longer in pain.
There are no words to tell all of you how deeply sorry we are for your loss. Elaine was such a warm and friendly person who was always smiling and full of sunshine whenever I would see her! She will be dearly missed by so many. Take comfort in knowing that while she was taking her last breath here on earth, she was taking her first breath with the angels. Rest peacefully in God’s arms.❤️🌸🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you so much Keith and Chris for the kind words and very comforting thought. I think often of this thought and it comforts my heart. Love you both.
Jenny,
I am so very sorry for you and your family’s loss. I know how dearly you adored your sweet mom. Sending our love to you.
– Billie & Darryl Pomarzynski
Gabby my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family I truly enjoyed talking with her at the library. She will be missed.
Thank you so much for the kind words Ray. I will make sure to pass this along to my dad.
Jeff so saddened to hear about the passing of your mother. She will be greatly missed by everyone.
Thank you so much Mack for your kind words. We really appreciate you. I will pass this along to Jeff also.
Alex and I are saddened by the loss of your loving mother and wife. Praying for peace and healing in the days ahead.
Debbie and Alex Del llano
(Jeff’s mother inlaw)
Thank you so much Debbie and Alex for your sweet words and prayers. It’s been pretty rough, but are so grateful for all the prayers. They help so much. Hugs.
Gabby, Betsy and Jenny –
We are so sorry for your loss. Elaine was a wonderful person and she will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kathy Franckowiak and Terry Moore
Gabbie, I am so sorry for your loss. You will all be in my prayers
I just saw this, I’m so sorry that she passed. She was always so fun to chat with and, she gave great recommendations. I will always think of her, fondly.