Obituary of Buzz Novak

John Paul Novak affectionately known as "Buzz" passed away peacefully on December 8^th 2024 with his loving family at his side. Buzz was raised in Summit, NJ and was a graduate of Summit High School, class of 1961.

Many happy & memorable years were spent involving the family-owned business of Baltusrol Stables in Summit teaching horseback riding and showing horses. He enlisted in the US Army and was stationed in Germany which so happens to be where his mother, Edith Novak Bisson, was born and raised. 

Buzz was a very devoted family person along with his quick wit and humorous personality. He was also very involved with volunteering, an activity which he and his wife, Betty, spent countless hours preparing & delivering meals to serve to the homeless in New York City. One of Buzz & Betty's most beloved times was their weekly dinners at the Black Horse Inn in Mendham, NJ. It is a special place where they hosted a wonderful celebration renewing their 25^th wedding vows with family and friends.

Buzz worked alongside his brother Greg at Chem Clean Furniture Restoration for the past 24 years in Scotch Plains and Plainfield, NJ. He thoroughly enjoyed his time there with his coworkers and his customers. He was the friendly guy who greeted you at the door and the voice on the phone to many customers over the years. He was talented in so many areas. His salesmanship skills were unparalleled as was his craftsmanship. He spent time not only dealing with customers but many hours repairing intricate antiques or any piece of furniture. He built lasting relationships with the fellow businessmen that Chem Clean dealt with. His presence and his one of a kind personality and friendship will be missed.  He was an animal lover as well and was clearly the favorite of the several shop cats over the years. 

Buzz leaves behind his devoted wife of 34 years, Betty; his children Yvette Sloane and her husband Rick; Yvonne Langdon and her partner Everett Seemann; Kimberly Taylor and her husband Wade; his brothers Dennis H. Novak and his wife Nancy; Gregory Bisson and his wife Liz; his sister Karen Novak; and four grandchildren: Dylan, Samantha, Anthony & Lindsay. Buzz was known as the larger-than-life, fun "Uncle Buzz" to Scott Novak, Todd Novak, Craig Founds, Lindsay Kelly, Jason, Renee and Tara Bisson and Amanda Jakubowski. 

The family will respect his final request of "no show and tell" by having a private remembrance. As his nephew said, "have a good cry but then think about how big a life he lived." Buzz will be missed by innumerable friends and family.

Arrangements for a celebration will be announced at a later date. Donations in Buzz's memory can be made to Deborah Heart & Lung Center.