Novak, Emma Bertha

Emma Bertha Novak, 101, of Ely, died Sunday, May 15, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. John Lutheran Church in Ely, with the Rev. Ericka Uthe presiding. Burial will follow in Rogers Grove Cemetery near Ely. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids, located at 2121 Bowling St. SW.

Emma was born on Dec. 3, 1909, in rural Johnson County, near Solon, the daughter of John Elias and Amelia (Binko) Vornholt. She married William Novak on August 15, 1929. Emma and William farmed in the Ely area nearly all their lives. She enjoyed cooking; baking, especially kolaches; gardening; and painting pictures, china and various other items. She also enjoyed time spent with her family. Emma was involved in her church and organizations such as the Dorcas Society, the Rebeckah Lodge, Senior Dining, Blue Willow and the Friendship Club.

Emma is survived by her children, Edward J. “Bud” (Joan) Novak of Belle Plaine, and William J. “Billy” (Irene) Novak of Ely; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren.

Emma was preceded in death by her husband, William on Dec. 21, 1971; and her brothers, Charles, Louis and Edward Vornholt.

Memorials may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church in her name.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at .