Funeral services are 10:30 AM, Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at the East Lake Andes Lutheran Church. Burial is in the Wagner Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5 to 7 PM at the East Lake Andes Lutheran Church. 

Leo Novak, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 86 surrounded by the love of his family. His passing leaves a space in our hearts that can never be filled, but his memory will live on in the lives he touched.

Leo grew up on the family farm south of Dante, SD and he graduated from Wagner School in 1958. He met the love of his life, Ruth Honomichl and married her on August 28, 1962. Leo served in the South Dakota National Guard and was a life long member of the American Legion. Ruth and Leo continued to live and farm together until 1995, when they both began working at Commercial State Bank. They worked there side-by-side for 15 years.

Leo was known for his kindness and his unforgettable sense of humor. He had a gentle way about him and a natural ability to make people laugh without even trying. Whether he was sharing stories, cracking jokes, or sitting at the card table determined not to lose, he brought warmth and life into every room he entered. He especially loved playing “Ben’s Game” - and although he never liked being beaten, those games were always filled with laughter, playful arguments, and memories that will be cherished forever.

He enjoyed going for drives and cherished the simple time spent on the road. One of his most special routines was helping his son install windshields every Tuesday - a time not just for work, but for conversation, laughter, and the quiet bond between father and son. He also looked forward to his Wednesday night drives with his daughter for steak and casino night. Moments filled with good food, easy conversation, and treasured time together. He spent almost every weekend at her house, going with them almost everywhere they went, creating countless memories and simply enjoying being part of the everyday moments that meant the most. Around town, he was often seen cruising on his scooter, a familiar and comforting sight too many who knew him.

Being a grandfather was one of the greatest joys of Leo’s life. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren and took pride in watching them grow. Whether it was laughter, stories, beating them in cards or simply sitting side-by-side visiting those moments were among his most cherished.

Leo is survived by his daughter Suzette (Bill) Youngstrom of Armour; his son Terry (Lori) Novak of Hartford; his brother Bob (Agnes) Novak of Yankton; and his sister Maxine (Jack) Schultz of Burlington IA; his cherished grandchildren: Megan (Chris) Carr and their daughter Tamzyn, Mindy (Alex) Novak, Chelsey (Chuck) Moad and their children: Isaiah, Aaliyah, and Kirah, Eric (Holly) Novak and their children: Callan and Cecelia, Brianna (Tucker) Severson sand their son Theodore, and Lexi Youngstrom.

Leo was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth Novak as well as his parents.

Above all else, Leo cherished his family. His presence was steady, his heart was generous, and his love was constant. The lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the example he set will continue to guide those who carry his memory forward.

Leo Novak will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.