Melissa Kaye Novak

Melissa “Missy” Kaye Novak, 46, a lifelong resident of Winona, MN, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, after a grueling 15-month battle against Stage 4 Bladder Cancer.

As an avid sportsman and athlete, Missy treasured spending time outside with the people she loved and her dogs. She cherished hunting with her dad, Mark Sr, working in the garden with her mom, Nancy, golfing with her son, Thomas (19), and fishing with her stepson, Ryan (18). She shared a love for crime shows with her sister, Amber, and they knew millions of facts between them about books, movies, history, sports, and other randomness. She was immensely proud of her brother, Mark Jr, and niece Payton. She adored her extended family and both families she married into. She had the quick wit, kind heart, and the fierce independence of her Grandma June whom she looked up to most of all. Her late Grandpa Edward sparked an enduring love of sports, and it is very likely he had a line of old ball players ready to meet her when she got to heaven. She believed in working hard for what’s important. As Thomas said, “She was strong and stubborn and did everything for me and the family.” She was a dedicated and respected employee of Ardent Mills in Lake City, MN, for over 20 years. The people there became so much more than co-workers. Her steady, loyal brand of friendship and her unwavering open-heart were experienced by all that were fortunate to cross her path. She had a special place in her heart for her lifelong friend, Nikki, and her daughter, Tiana. She held all of her beloved “framily” close. She and her wife, Jodie, had 8 short years together; Jodie was her person and Missy was Jodie’s. They loved doing life together facing challenges and triumphs head on with optimism and humor.

A Christian memorial service will be held 6:00-6:45pm on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Goodview, MN. It will be followed by a Time of Sharing 7:00-8:00pm. Consider sharing how you met Missy, a favorite story, how she impacted you, etc. Visitation is available 3:00-6:00pm at the same location. Of course, there is no dress code, however we invite you to join the family in wearing Camo or Vikings, Twins, or Steelers gear. ASL Interpretation provided 6:00-8:00pm. The service and Time of Sharing (6:00-8:00pm) will be live streamed online, link can be of found at www.hofffuneral.com

Hoff Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family.

A recording of Missy's service is at the link below. 

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc1MzE5NjU4MDM3MjYyNSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==