Robert "Bob" Novak

Robert B. Novak (Bob), age 86, of Lake Elmo, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at St. John's Hospital in Maplewood. He was born on April 2, 1939, in St. Paul, to Bernard and Leona (Danisch) Novak.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Carol "Jeanne"; children Paul and Anne (Dave) Leikam; grandchildren Max Novak, Tony Novak, Samuel Leikam, Julie (Jack Richert) Leikam and Annika Novak; siblings Don Novak and Mary Ann Creager; brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, niece, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Leona Novak.

Bob was born on April 2, 1939, and grew up on the East Side of St. Paul in a Polish community, attending St. Casimir's grade school. His industrious work ethic was prevalent at an early age, as he worked for the railroad to put himself through Cretin High School, sophomore through senior year, graduating in the top 10% of his class of 1957. He enrolled in vocational school, focusing on tool and die making and became a business partner in Mold Craft in the early 1960's.

After marrying Jeanne in 1967, his career shifted to working beside his father-in-law, Earl Goerss, operating Lake Elmo Oil, Inc. In 1983, he and Jeanne bought the business and worked together, until their retirement in 2009.

Bob was an active member of the Minnesota Petroleum Marketers Association serving on its board of directors for over 15 years. He led the Association's Insurance Committee, helping to develop one of the most successful insurance dividend programs for fuel marketers in the country. Bob ultimately served as Association President from 1994-1996.

He was a dedicated member of the Lake Elmo Lion's club for over 50 years.

An avid golfer, Bob joined Stillwater Country Club in the early '70's, fueling the interest he developed as a young teenager. He was blessed to share the game with friends and family until the fall of 2025.

Bob's love for music and the concertina reached far and wide. He learned to play the concertina as a young adult, and in 1990 began building 'Echo' brand concertinas in the workshop of his home. The World Concertina Congress inducted Bob into its Hall of Fame in 2004, recognizing his talents to produce, promote and preserve the history of the concertina. He reached his goal of building 50 concertinas in 2021.

The love for his family, especially his grandchildren, was extraordinary and unwavering. He had a unique bond with each and every one of them. Taking care of family was one of the most important acts of love he shared.

Bob is remembered for his industrious work ethic, generous spirit and love for his family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 10:00am, at the Church of St. Charles, 409 Third St N, Bayport, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Interment at St Michael's Cemetery in Bayport immediately following Mass, with lunch at Lake Elmo Inn Event Center, 3712 Layton Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the charity or cause of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.