Linden Police Officer Dies At 41 Following Short Illness

LINDEN, NJ — Linden Police Officer Michael Novak, 41, died early Wednesday morning following a short illness.

Novak was a lifelong Linden resident. Following his graduation from Linden High School in 1993 he joined the United States Army, where he served as a Correctional Specialist until he was Honorably Discharged in 1997. He was employed in the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the United States Customs Service for a short
period before joining the Linden Police Department in 2002.

Novak graduated from the John Stamler Police Academy and served the residents of Linden as a Patrolman for the next fourteen years.

"He was a kind person, doing for others without expecting anything in return, a task that brought him great joy. He enjoyed spending time with his children, cooking, working on his cars, flying his plane, and the company of his good friends, many of which he has known for over 20 years," according to his obituary on Werson Funeral Home in Linden.

Novak is survived by his wife Carla (Cale) Novak, and his two young sons, Jacob (7), and Connor (4).

"He will be forever missed, a void that is irreplaceable, a laugh that will be remembered, a smirk that hid so many lessons, and blue eyes that will shine in the memory of those who love him," the obituary stated.

“As Michael's friends and colleagues we mourn his death, but more importantly we celebrate his lifetime of dedicated service to our country and our community.” said Linden Police Chief Jonathan Parham, “We ask that you keep Michael's family, friends, and coworkers in your thoughts and prayers as we deal with this painful loss.”

Funeral service will be held at the Werson Funeral Home, 635 North Wood Avenue, Linden, on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 at 9:15 a.m. Funeral Mass is in St. John the Apostle Church, Clark-Linden, at 10 a.m. Cremation will be at Rosehill Crematory, Linden. Visiting hours are on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. only.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Brain Research Foundation (www.thebrf.org) or to Imaginenj.org in his memory would be appreciated.

To send online condolences please visit www.wersonfuneralhome.com.

(Image via Linden Police Department)

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