Irene Novak, 86, passed away on Monday, Oct., 15, 2007, at the Brendan House in Kalispell. She was born on Nov. 26, 1920, in Berwyn, Ill., to Joseph and Ella (Neckar) Sherry.

After graduating from Morton High School in Berwyn, Irene met and married Arthur Novak. They were married on Oct., 18, 1942, and were just going to celebrate their 65th anniversary.

Irene had many hobbies and interests which included her flowers and gardening; she enjoyed baking, watching wildlife at her Lakeside home and her dogs; but mostly Irene loved watching her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren grow up.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents and a sister.

She is survived by her husband, Arthur, of Kalispell; and two sons, Russ Novak and wife Dianne of Kalispell, and Mark Novak and wife Patti of Sammamish, Wash.; six grandchildren, Kim Gunlickson and husband Rial, Christopher Novak and wife Callie, Jason Novak and wife Jennifer, Heidi, Brian and Carrie Novak; and seven great-grandchildren, Gabrielle and Rial Gunlickson, Eli and Keegan Novak, Able Price, Rafielle Novak and Claire Stefanatz.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19, in the Johnson Mortuary Chapel. Burial will follow in the C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be in the Johnson Mortuary Friday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of service.

The family suggests memorial gifts be given to Home Options Hospice, 175 Commons Loop, Suite No. 100, Kalispell, MT 59901; or the Humane Society, 3499 U.S. 93, Kalispell, MT 59901.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Irene's family. You are invited to go to www.johnsonmortuary.com to offer condolences and sign Irene's guest book.