Christopher J. Nowak

Christopher J. Nowak, affectionately known as Chris, passed away on January 24, 2026, in Traverse City, Michigan, at the age of 66. Born on August 13, 1959, in Gaylord, Michigan, Chris was a proud member of his community and a devoted family man.

After completing his education at St. Mary's High School in 1977, where he showcased his athletic talents by participating in baseball, football, basketball, and track, Chris dedicated himself to serving his country. He enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1977 to 1980, and then again from 1982 until 1996. During his military career, he was stationed at various locations including Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Fort Wainwright, Alaska, Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, Fort Ord, California, Fort Mead, Maryland, Mainz, Germany, Fort Carson, Colorado and Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Following his honorable discharge, Chris made his home in Spring Lake, Michigan before returning to his hometown Gaylord Mi

Chris married the love of his life, Robin (O'Dell) on September 30, 1978. Together they raised three beautiful daughters, creating a lifetime of memories.

Upon retiring from the Army, Chris found purpose in his work as a truck driver for Campbell Farms and Forestry, a role he fulfilled with dedication for 30 years.

Chris was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He took immense pride in his three daughters, who were truly the light of his life. Renowned for his caring nature, Chris was always ready to lend a helping hand to others. His sense of humor made him a beloved jokester among family and friends, and he had a remarkable ability to see the good in everyone he encountered.

An avid outdoorsman, Chris cherished activities such as rifle and bow hunting. His love for sports, particularly the Detroit Tigers baseball team, was a testament to his deep-rooted passion for his family, faith, and country. Chris was an armchair historian, and if you asked him anything about the Civil War or WW2 he knew the answer. He was constantly reading and studying about The Civil War and WW2. Traveling was another pursuit that brought him joy, with a memorable journey to Utah visiting all the Utah National Parks with his wife, Robin. One of his last cherished trips was to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, fulfilling a lifelong goal of his.

Chris took great pride in his accomplishments, notably earning the prestigious Gold German Bundeswehr Marksman Lanyard for high proficiency in marksmanship with rifles and pistols. This recognition spoke volumes about his dedication and skill.

He is survived by his wife, Robin, of 47 years; three daughters, Lianne (Brian) Abel of Gaylord, Valerie (Christopher) Riley of Summerville, SC., and Jaqueline (Andrew) Goebel of Gaylord; grandchildren, Zora, Braeson, Hadley, Oliver, Findley, Aleksander and Madison; brothers and sisters, Mary (David) Wenzel of Gaylord, Antonia (Steve) Dreyer of Gaylord, Casimer (Pam) Nowak, Patricia (Ron) Wilcox of DeWitt, MI; mother-in-law, Mary O'Dell; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael Lewis and Angeline Henrietta (Kucharek) Nowak; his brothers, Joseph, Gabriel (Elaine) and Jerome Nowak; his father-in-law, Donald O'Dell; and his grandmother-in-law, Sophie Townsend.

Robin and her daughters would like to give a special acknowledgement to their extended family members, Shawn and Jennifer O'Dell, Michelle Stazney, Alan O'Dell, Renee and Larry Campbell and Karen O'Dell.

Visitation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place 10:00 AM Friday, January 30, 2026, at St. Mary Cathedral, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 9:00 AM. Burial will take place in the spring at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Ralph Holewinski VFW Post 1518, St. Mary Cathedral School or to Hospice of Michigan.

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