Harold Ignatius Nowak was born on Sept. 1, 1933, in Blue Earth, Minn., to parents, Ignatius and Anna (Kotewa) Nowak. In his early years, the family moved to East Chain, Minn., where he attended country school and learned the value of responsibility. From a young age, Harold worked alongside his father on the farm. In farming and construction, he developed the strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

In 1955, Harold answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He completed his basic training at Fort Smith, Ark., and went on to receive military police training at Fort Gordon in Georgia. Harold was stationed in Augsburg, Germany, where he carried out his duties with pride and discipline. His honorable discharge in 1958 marked the end of his military service, but his commitment to country and community never wavered.

Following his return to Minnesota, Harold resumed farming and raised dairy cattle until 1970. On Feb. 13, 1960, he was united in marriage to Joan B. Koehn in Avoca, Minn. Together, they built a life grounded in love, hard work, and family. They made their home in and around Fairmont, Minn., where they raised their three children: Linda, Todd, and Jon. In 1990, they fulfilled a dream by moving to their lake home on Fox Lake, a place that became a backdrop for countless cherished memories.

Harold’s career in construction reflected his tireless nature and pride in craftsmanship. He worked for John Livermore Construction and was a proud member of Carpenters Local Union #1464, now 464. He later owned and operated his own construction business before traveling the country with Shopko Stores, helping build and remodel locations until the mid 90’s. Even after moving to Fox Lake, Harold continued working in construction until his retirement in 2012, demonstrating a lifetime commitment to his trade.

He was an active member of Fox Lake Conservation Club, the Knights of Columbus Martin County American Legion, Martin County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1222,. Through these organizations, Harold remained deeply connected to his fellow veterans, his community, and the values he held dear.

Outside of his work, Harold found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life. He had a passion for woodworking, creating lasting pieces that will continue to be treasured by family and friends. He appreciated the satisfaction of a hard day’s work, whether gardening, splitting wood or tackling a new project. He also enjoyed family days fishing and camping with loved ones, and friends and dreaming up new craft ideas. He had a quick wit that put the mischief in his eyes along with the smirk on his face. Throughout his life he never met a stranger, he would talk and joke with anyone.

Harold’s life was a testament to hard work, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He gave generously of his time and was a source of help to all who knew him. His generosity having touched countless lives through his willingness to help anyone at any time, and that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He loved his country, his family, and was proud of the work he did.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Linda (Michael) Barutt of Graceville, Minn., and Jon (Karen) Nowak of Pemberton, Minn.; grandchildren, Chad (Clair) Barutt, Alex Barutt (Mikayla), Hunter Nowak, Emma Nowak, Nikki Lewis, Mitchel (Dana) Nowak, Emily (Cody) Cook, Meg (Tov) Topete, Matt Hiller (Shelly), Katie Hiller (Austen), and Allison Douglas (Tyler); great-grandchildren, Chet Barutt, Cooper Barutt, Layla Lawton, Madison Lewis, Wyatt Lewis, Levi Lewis, Sawyer Cook, Kory Cook, Kashton Cook, Macklin Cook, Everly Topete, Nolan Schooley, Griffin Roselius, Charlotte Roselius, and Ellie Roselius; brother, Earl (Judy) Nowak; in-laws, Maureen Vogel, Gerald (Elaine) Koehn, Mark (Virginia) Koehn, Lefty Erickson, and Cheryl Koehn; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Harold is also remembered by special friends, Tari (Bob) Stradtman and their daughters, Mikayla and Kinze and Dawn (Tim) Bursaw.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Ignatius and Anna Nowak; wife, Joan Nowak; son, Todd Nowak; brother, Richard Nowak; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harold and Elaine Koehn; sisters-in-law, Donna Bertrand and Shirley Erickson; brothers-in-law, Ronald Koehn, Roger Koehn, David Koehn, Craig Koehn; as well as other extended family and close friends.

www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

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