Alexander E. Novitzke

Alexander "Alex" E. Novitzke, 96, Wausau, died Friday, November 22, 2013 at his home, under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice. He was born January 12, 1917 in the town of Emmet, son of the late Frank and Mary (Kowalewski) Novitzke. On February 10, 1945, he married Irene Richey in Wausau. She preceded him in death on June 30, 1978. Alex was a veteran of the United States Army and served during World War II. He was a recipient of the Distinguished Unit Badge, Good Conduct and Service Ribbon, Silver Battle Star, Bronze Battle Star and six overseas service bars. Alex was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Burns Post No. 388, Wausau. Alex was employed with D. J. Murray Foundry in Wausau for 36 years until his retirement. Among his favorite pastimes, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, ice-fishing and making maple syrup. He was a good hearted neighbor and friend to anyone in need and was known as the "Neighborhood Handyman and Whirlleygig Man". Alex was a charter member and usher at St. Matthew Catholic Church. Survivors include, one son, Robert Novitzke, Wausau; three cousins, Marlin (Mary) Novitzke, Edgar, Norbert (Helen) Novitzke, Mosinee and Jim (Dorie) Novitzke, Milwaukee; one sister-in-law, Anna Marie Meyer, Clintonville; his special friend, Mya Mia; and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and wife, Irene, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward, Robert and Leo Novitzke; and three sisters, Florence Cyganek, Della Berna and Phyllis Olson. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon Tuesday November 26, 2013 at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Wausau. Rev. Robert Thorn will preside. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, where full Military Honors will be conducted by the Wausau VFW. Friends may call on Monday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 3400 Stewart Avenue, Wausau and again on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church. There will be a parish vigil service at 6:00 p.m. Monday at the Stewart Avenue Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com