Community Raising Money For Family Of Creekside Teacher Who Died

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Nicole LaBee-Novak, a second-grade teacher at Creekside Elementary School in Plainfield District 202 died unexpectedly on May 19, according to a GoFundMe campaign raising money for her husband and two children. She was 38 years old.

Described as "a healthy and vibrant young mother of two children," LaBee-Novak had been a teacher for more than 14 years. "Nicole touched the lives of hundreds of 2nd graders at Creekside Elementary," according to the Candace King, who organized the fundraiser. "She was an amazing teacher who loved her students and fellow teachers. Her students adored her!"

The school district also shared condolences.

"We are heartbroken for this tragic loss, for our school and students, but most especially for Nicole’s family," Plainfield School District 202's director of community relations Tom Hernandez told Patch. "We offer our sincere condolences to her family and friends."

LaBee-Novak is survived by her husband, Gerry Novak, a youth baseball coach for the Chicago White Sox, and her children Brycen, 7, and Rylee, 5.

"With Gerry in the cage and Nicole in the classroom, both have spent countless hours helping our kids reach their goals with their unbelievable patience and compassion," according to the GoFundMe page. "I hope we can come together and support their family in this time of need."

Comments left on the GoFundMe page include:

Sally Guilbo:

She was a beautiful, caring, smart, hard working, fun girl when she was in high school and playing softball. She never changed as an adult. Prayers from the Guilbo family.

Tina Falkner:

Our oldest son, Andrew, spent many summers with Coach Gerry at White Sox camps. It was always a highlight of his summer. We are so sorry for this great loss and will keep them in our prayers. -The Falkners

Andrea Strand:

You will be forever missed my sweet friend

The campaign had already raised $22,080 from 238 separate donors, toward a goal of $70,000, as of Friday afternoon.

Donations can be made here.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.