EDWARD A. NOVAKOSKI

   Edward A. Novakoski, 80, of Worcester, died Sunday, June 15, 2008 at the UMass-Memorial Medical Center.

   His wife of 51 years, Emily B. (Taylor) Novakoski, died in 2003.

   He leaves five children, Stephanie Keene of Bradenton, Fla., Barbara Seibold and her husband Paul of Worcester, Valerie Marsden of Shrewsbury, Veronica Gates and her husband Jason of Holden, and Andrew Novakoski and his wife Carol of Auburn; four sisters, Helen known as Sister Mary Olympia of the Sisters of Nazarene of Monroe, Ct., Barbara Adishian and her husband John of Fresno, Calif., Victoria DiLeo of Worcester and Theresa Pancare of Leominster; 12 grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by three brothers, Walter, Joseph and Frank.

   Mr. Novakoski was born in Worcester, son of Joseph and Viola (Morris) Novakoski and lived in Worcester all his life.

   He graduated from Worcester Boys Trade High School, now Worcester Tech. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and Korea serving as a ship pharmacist's mate.

   He was an instructor in painting, decorating and other finish work in Massachusetts vocational high schools for many years. He also ran his own painting and decorating company for many years. He later worked at Home Depot before retiring.

   He was a board member for the Webster First Federal Credit Union. With his wife, he was an active volunteer for the Connie Mack Little League. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church. His favorite pastime was fishing.

   Calling hours at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester, are Wednesday, June 18th from 5 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be Thursday, June 19th from the funeral Home with a Mass at 10 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove St., Worcester. Burial will be private.

   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Central Mass. Shelter for Homeless Veterans, 69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605 or Y.O.U. Inc., 81 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604.