RACINE – Laurie Novak-Simmons, 51, leapt forth from our presence on Leap Day, providing one last show of her characteristic effort to stand out and her knack for impeccable timing. Laurie was born May 14, 1960 in Racine, Wisconsin to Elizabeth King and Myron Novak. She passed away in her home.
A renaissance woman, Laurie opened one of the first all-women’s health clubs in Wisconsin in her early twenties. She also worked as a beautician, delivered packages for UPS, and waitressed. In her thirties and forties, she owned and operated three bed and breakfasts, including the Brockway House in Macomb, IL, the Manor House in Kenosha, and the Christmas House in Racine. In her late forties, she embarked on a new career path in nursing. She was one semester from completing her degree when she passed. Laurie never gave in to the illness that took her life. She maintained her sense of humor and love for her family, and remained enthusiastic about her career to the end.
Her creativity, ambition, passion for learning and interest in travel lives on in her five children, Lynnsey (Ryan) Jones, Courtney Doucette, Joseph Spanbauer, Mallory Simmons, and Kennedy Simmons. She is further survived by her parents Elizabeth and Myron, her sister Wendy (Robin) Draves, and brother Buddy Novak, her two grandchildren, Cayden and Finn Jones, and her niece and nephew Elizabeth and Evan Draves.
A memorial service will be held at Evangelical United Methodist Church (212 11th Street, Racine, WI) at 3pm on Saturday, March 3, 2012 with Rev. John Flemming officiating. Visitation will begin at 2pm.
The family would like to thank Amy Maki, Alex Garcia and the outstanding team from Heartland Hospice and Homecare, who provided the best care to Laurie in her final days and taught her children how keep her comfortable in her home.
Cindy (Henthorn) Sterkel says
To Laurie’s family and friends,I am so sorry for your (our) loss of such a beautiful soul. God blessed you with an angel and she had to go home. You are now blessed to have her watch over you.I send all my love and prayers to you. My deepest sympathy, Cindy and Doug Sterkel
Tish Bolger says
Laurie lived I big life, I know
that her passing creates a void and a deep loss felt by all. Please know we hold you all in our thoughts and wish you peace.
Jennifer Golwitzer Sutton says
Dear Kennedy and Mallory, I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Mrs. Sutton (Ms. Golwitzer)
Ann Thicke says
Lynnsey and Ryan
So sorry to read about your mom. We are praying for your family and I will let the rest of the Monday ladies know
Fran and Mark Wanta says
To Laurie’s children and family, as you grieve the loss of your mom, grandma, daughter, sister and aunt know that we are thinking of you. Laurie will remain in our hearts forever!
Pete & Gina Schroeder says
Laurie was a good mom. We are sorry that you had to lose your mom at such a young age. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tom and Lisa Waidelich says
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. As we thought back to the years that we spent with Laurie it brought back wonderful memories. She was always someone you wanted to spend time with. Our thoughts and prayer to you all.
Eric Wnuck says
Laurie’s family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. She was a wonderful person and a great spirit. Even though we hadn’t spoken to hear in a while we consider her a great friend. See will be sadly missed. God bless her soul and watch over all of you.
Craig Vance says
Laurie embraced life and saw obstacles as challenges to be overcome. I will always remember Laurie�۪s laughter, smile, and limitless energy. My life is fuller for having known her and having the honor of sharing time with her and her wonderful family. She may be gone from your presence, but her beautiful spirit surrounds you always. With much sadness and deepest sympathy.