NOWAK , Ed Nowak

We lost a good one — a man who lived a full life with integrity, courage, and gratitude. Ed Nowak passed away from cancer on August 8, 2025, after a courageous 42-month journey and 75 rounds of chemotherapy. He faced his illness as he did all of life — with a positive attitude, grounded strength, and unwavering support from family and friends.

Ed was the son of the late Victor and Anna Nowak. He leaves to mourn and cherish their life together his devoted wife and amazing caregiver, Karen, his partner of 49 years. He is lovingly remembered by his children Angela Garland (Nathan) and Andrew Nowak (Sarah), and his grandchildren Olivia, Hannah, and Alayna Garland, and Ava and William Nowak. He is also survived by his sisters Goldine Pankratz (Jim) and Nell Peters (Martin); brothers-in-law David Thiessen and John Thiessen (Marisa); and sister-in-law Barbara Krick.

In recent years, Ed most cherished being an active part of his grandchildren’s lives — cheering them on at baseball and hockey games, and enjoying weekly family suppers filled with laughter, conversation, and his signature salmon. Special times at the family’s cottage rental on Otter Lake over the past seven years created treasured memories.

Ed and Karen shared a life rich with love, family, and adventure — from annual ski trips to Mont Orford, road trips out west, and visiting friends across Canada, the U.S., and Europe, to enjoying Palm Desert and Hilton Head. Guided by a “pay it forward” philosophy instilled by his parents, Ed generously gave his time and resources, serving on numerous church and non-profit boards and helping raise over $15 million for causes close to his heart.

Ed served as Co-Chair of the Fairview Parkwood Craigwiel Communities Board of Directors. In recognition of Ed and Karen’s commitment and generosity, the new 192-bed long-term care facility bears their names — the Ed and Karen Nowak Long Term Care Home.

Professionally, Ed enjoyed a successful 35-year career as co-founder of Roth Nowak Insurance Brokers, alongside Dennis Roth, leading their team by the company motto: “Honesty, integrity, and good judgment.” He was an avid golfer and long-time member of Deer Ridge Golf Club, a passionate skier who conquered over 30 mountains, and more recently, a curler at the Galt Curling Club. Ed was also a talented cook, always eager to share great meals, recipes, and wine with family and friends.

Ed and Karen were profoundly grateful for the care received from the Grand River Cancer Centre, Dr. Hubay and team, Dr. Russek and palliative care staff, the chemo suite nurses, Care Partners, and dear friend Dr. Elliot Williamson.

Visitation will be held at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Thursday, August 14, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Waterloo North Mennonite Church, 100 Benjamin Road, Waterloo, on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow. Private family interment at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s memory may be made to Fairview Parkwood Craigwiel Communities or Shalom Counselling Services.