Sarah Esther Nowak dies after brief illness; graveside set

SARAH ESTHER NOWAK, a retired salesperson and homemaker, died on Monday, January 8, 2018,  after a brief illness that resulted in congestive heart failure. She was 98.

For much of her married life, she worked long hours in the family clothing business. She enjoyed cooking, reading, gardening, cruises, and casino games, and participated enthusiastically in family activities until just weeks before her passing.

A native of New Orleans, Nowak had resided in the Lake Vista neighborhood since 1953. She was known as a supportive and caring mother and housewife. A selfless woman, she is remembered fondly as someone who always looked after the welfare of others, even ignoring her own self. She loved and adored her children and doted on her many pet dogs throughout her lifetime. 

She was predeceased by her husband of more than 52 years Jacob Nowak in 1993 and Gerald Nowak, a child who died in infancy. She is survived by her children Ronald Max Nowak, and Caren Bette Nowak,  her daughter-in-law, Helena (Li) Nowak, her son-in-law, Allen Rosenzweig; a granddaughter and two great-grandchildren.

A graveside funeral service was held  at Gates of Prayer Cemetery, 1411 Joseph St, New Orleans, on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. Rabbi Robert Loewy officiated.

Memorial donations may be made to Zeus’ Rescues, 2520 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70015 or SpayMart, 6601 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70003. Tharp-Sontheimer-Tharp Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at www.tharpsontheimerfh.com.