Mary Jean (Kanaba) Novak

Mary Jean Novak, 87, of Lucernemines, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully on May 11, 2023, at Indiana Regional Medical Center, Indiana, Pennsylvania.  She was the daughter of Michael and Mary (Zofchen) Kanaba and was born on March 11, 1936, in Ernest, Pennsylvania.  

Mary Jean was a member of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Lucernemines Site, the Altar Rosary Society, and the Red Barn Ladies Auxiliary.  Mary Jean and Rita Turk weren’t only sisters but were also best friends. You didn't see one without the other. She was one of the founding members of the Our Lady of the Assumption pierogi sale.  Mary Jean was the “Pierogi Queen” and Rita was the “Pierogi Princess”. They were also known as the “Sheriff and the Deputy”.

Mary Jean is survived by her three children, Mark (Jan) Novak, Homer City; Luke (Rhonda) Novak, Homer City; and Joni Wolford, Lucernemines. She is also survived by her grandsons, Nick (Jess) Novak and Louis (Tina) Wolford, and her granddaughter, Molly Novak. Her three great-grandchildren, Chase, Mason, and Owen, her sister, Rita Turk, and many nieces and nephews also survive her.  

In addition to her parents, Mary Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Joe of 62 years; her son, Matthew, and her brother, Mickey Kanaba. 

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Indian Haven and the ICU staff at IRMC for their special care of our mom, Mary Jean. 

Friends will be received Sunday from 2-5 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Homer City.  A Blessing Service will be held at 10: 30 AM at the funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Lucernmine Site.  Interment to follow in the church cemetery. 

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