John Novy

John Edwin Novy, age 89, of Two Harbors, passed peacefully on Monday, Sept. 2 at St. Luke’s Hospital in the comfort of his family

John was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on March 27, 1930 to Adeline (Kral) and James Novy. He grew up in Fort Dodge where, at an early age, he developed a great love of aviation. At the age of 17, he joined the Navy and spent 6 years serving in the Pacific. Then, in 1955, he transferred to the Air Force and served his country as an aircraft electrician, an aircraft instructor, and air sea rescue. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War. After 21 years, John retired from military service. He attended watchmaking and jewelry school at Quincy, Illinois and then owned his own jewelry store in Loveland, Colorado. During that time, he built and flew his own airplane, a Vari-Eze.

In 1987, he moved to Duluth, Minnesota where this talented man worked for Security Jewelry as a diamond setter and gemologist until his retirement. Throughout his life, John could be relied upon to help his family and friends with his expertise in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and many other skills. He loved to be outside in the garden and yard.

John and his partner, Elaine, loved to travel and go RVing with their friends. He enjoyed the company of their dog, Poppy.

John was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert and Russell Novy; and sister, Lucille Moore.

John is survived by his four children, Jeannine Cochran (William), Andrew Novy, Wayne Novy, and James Novy (Michella), 14 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, Elaine C. Mattsen (partner of 30 years) and his former wife, the mother of his children, Nancy Novy (Puschnig).

John’s family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by St Luke’s Hospital and staff. In lieu of flowers, please donate in John’s memory to a charity of your choosing.

A memorial service is pending and will be announced later. Memories of John will be in our hearts forever.