Adrian Nowak

With a heart full of love and a spirit that inspired smiles everywhere, Adrian Nowak was a blessing in the lives of everyone who knew him. Adrian brought great love in his life; love that his family will cherish forever.

It was on March 30, 1950 that John J. and Severine (Jastromski) Nowak of Milwaukee, Wisconsin cradled their newborn son, Adrian. He was the first child to bless the Nowak household and would be followed by three sisters, Mareme, Dorice and Carlen. In the year of his birth, the country was still recovering from the effects of World War II, while neighborhoods and schools were bursting at the seams in the post-war Baby Boom.

Although born a special needs child, Adrian was a bright and happy boy, who was full of life surrounded by the love and care of his family. At the age of 9, Adrian moved to Southern Colony Group Home, where he made many friends and was very happy. He would return home to visit his family over the holidays and share in the festivities. His niece, Jessica, always had fun whenever Uncle Adrian was around, as she liked to dress him up like a big doll. One time, Adrian was found all dressed up sitting in a crib, just as cute as a button.

In the late 1970s, Adrian was moved to another group home called Jackson Center. Unfortunately his personality seemed to change while here; he was grumpier and not his usual happy self anymore. Yet, Adrian was always interested in meeting new people, politely shaking their hands and showing them his watch, which he faithfully wore all the time. Eventually, Adrian moved to the 99th Street Home in West Allis, where he became part of another loving “family.”

Over the years, Adrian enjoyed working at Goodwill Industries, but recently decided to retire. Wanting to stay active, he began helping out at a local senior center and liked the social interaction with the people there, who thought he was the “nicest, grumpy old man there.”

Born to Eternal Life on Monday, December 20, 2010, age 60 years. Beloved son of the late John and the late Severine Nowak. Loving brother of Mareme Nowak, Carlen (Tom) Johnson, and the late Dorice Nowak. Uncle of Jessica. Great-uncle of Erik, Marcelino, and Juan Diego. Also survived by his “family” at 99th St. Group Home. Family and friends will gather at Suminski Family Funeral Homes, 1901 North Farwell Avenue, Milwaukee, (414-276-5122), on Monday, December 27, from 5:00 p.m. until time of the Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m.