Dennis Thomas Novara

Dennis Thomas Novara, age 76, longtime resident of Northville, passed away February 15, 2023. He was born on April 24, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Joseph and Josephine (Ruvolo) Novara.  Growing up in Detroit, Dennis’ reputation as a hard worker with a desire to help and mentor others was already evident. He graduated from Benedictine High School in Detroit, class of 1964 . He enlisted in the US Air Force National Guard and was activated to provide security during the Detroit Riots in 1967.

Following high school, Dennis owned and operated car washes in Detroit and worked in various sales positions over the years.  It wasn’t until later in life he found his true calling as a Juvenile Corrections Officer at Oakland County’s Children’s Village where he worked for over 20 years, stopping only recently due to health issues.

Dennis was a member of Holy Family in Novi where he regularly attended mass. He was a dedicated volunteer with the Northville Big Brothers where he mentored young men. He continued to keep in touch with many of them throughout the years, providing a positive role model in their lives.  Eric, one of the young men he mentored, remained an important part of Dennis’ life.  Dennis liked to travel across the United States. He took a month to drive the entire Route 66; but he also visited museums and roadside attractions all over the Country.  His greatest passion, however, was spending time with his family and extended family. He was known for organizing family events and parties so he could have all of his family together, especially around the holidays. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and would surprise them with planned adventures to arcades, painting workshops, or anything that he thought they would have an interest in. Dennis was a loving father, grandfather, partner, brother, uncle, and friend; he will be missed by all who loved him.

Dennis is survived by his son Curt (Nicole) Novara and daughter Dana Novara; his grandchildren, Joseph, Benjamin, Nicholas, Braxton; his loving companion, Eileen Fleeger; his siblings, Tony Novara, Jo Ann Liuzzo, Keith (Tanya) Novara and Larry Novara. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Paul Liuzzo.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, gathering begins at 10:30am with the service to start at 11am at St. Paul United Church of Christ, 31654 Mound Road, Warren.  Dr. Rev. K.C. Lazzara will officiate the service.  The family would like to invite everyone to join them at Andiamo's 7096 East 14 Mile Rd  Warren, MI  48092 for a luncheon to honor Dennis directly following the Memorial Service.  He will be laid to rest with his parents at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield in a private service.