Allan Robert Novick's Obituary
Allan Robert Novick, age 77, of Byhalia, MS, passed away on May 12 in the peaceful company of his family and his favorite songs.
Born on January 19, 1949, in Elmira, NY, Allan was the son of Robert and Maryann Novick. Throughout his life, Allan was known for his intelligence, humor, strength, and humility. As a young adult, he was unrivaled as a golden-gloves boxer at the Glove House and Neighborhood House in Elmira. Many will remember his ability to captivate anyone who would listen as he lined up a punchline for a good laugh. His youngest grandchildren fondly remember many hours at his pond fishing, swimming, and riding the four-wheeler and go cart. Memories from other friends and family include how he was the "most fun of all the friend dads", and how weeping willow trees will be remembered as "Uncle Al" trees. He was a drummer as a young adult, playing rock music with his brothers. He loved music like ELO, The Doobie Brothers, Frankie Vallie, and more. He loved having a Siamese cat by his side through the years, most recently Mr. Winston and Sydney.
Allan devoted over 50 years to his work in the field of histology, which brought his family to new adventures in North Carolina and Alabama and brought achievements and awards to his service. Outside of work, he was an avid carpenter, building many heirloom pieces and always having a project. He was an amateur herpetologist, exploring the creeks and woods, sometimes even bringing a snake home to shock his mother. This love of reptiles and amphibians was shared with his young children while they grew up in Pine City, NY and Alexandria, AL, which inspired their and his grandchildren's stewardship of living things and ecology. He was a huge fan of the 49ers, so much so that he painted his Byhalia home in red and gold. He will be remembered for his strength, resolve, playfulness, and thoughtful spirit, and his enduring hope that everything will work out.
He is survived by daughters Yvonne (Jeff) of Webster, MA, Charity Siebert (Mark) of Memphis, TN, and Heather Novick of Byhalia, MS, grandchildren Brian and Shawn Gatto, Clarity and Maya Novick, and Fisher Siebert, brothers John and Gary, ex-wife and best friend Christine Manzo, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary Ann, and brother Robert (Bobby).
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 22 at 1pm at Memorial Park Memphis, followed by graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Allan Novick Herpetology Education Fund at Pinecrest Camp and Retreat Center at this link https://camppinecrest.org/ways-to-support/
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