William Spencer Nowak's Obituary
In Loving Memory of William Nowak
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Nowak, 80 on July 5, 2024. He was a beloved husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and friend whose generosity, intellect, and love touched all who knew him.
William was born on January 20, 1944, and led a life marked by notable achievements and a dedication to service. He attended WSU where he became a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, and was always a proud Cougar. He graduated Cum Laude from Western Washington University in June 1973 and went on to receive his CPA certification in February 1975. His professional excellence was further recognized through his memberships in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Washington State Society of Certified Public Accountants, and the Institute of Management Accountants. His longest work tenure was working for the Hogan Family (Hogan’s Markets and Bag & Save) as Corporate Controller from October 1978 until they were sold in March 1995.
In addition to his professional success, William served his country with honor. He entered the Army in June 1966 and graduated from Field Artillery Officer Candidate School in May 1967, ranking 2nd in a class of 120. He served as a Senior Gunnery Instructor at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, from June 1967 through September 1969, and separated from active duty as a First Lieutenant.
William was a man of countless passions. He had a profound love for his family, music, reading, animals, sports especially Cougar football & Mariner Baseball, hiking, bird hunting, and photography. His gentle nature and kindness were felt by all creatures, and animals were naturally drawn to him.
He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Debbie Nowak; his beloved brother and Sister-in-law George & Lisa Nowak. His much-loved Children and Grandchildren, stepson Jason Campbell and his wife Cecia, along with their children Karen, Lucas, Joab and Logan; stepdaughter Angela Steffens and her partner James, along with their children Gage Thomas, Liam, Finn, Evie, Freya Steffens. He is also survived by extended family and friends who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his loving mother Ada Wahlbrink Nowak and father Andrew Nowak who also graduated from Ft Sill OSC on August 1942.
William’s legacy of love, integrity, and dedication to both his family and his country will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of his life will be held on September 7th from 1pm -4pm at Mountain View Funeral Home in Tacoma, Washington.
In lieu of flowers contributions to honor Bill could be made to: Fred Hutch Cancer Center (https://www.fredhutch.org/en.html), Mary Bridge Children’s Foundation (https://give.multicare.org/our-foundations/mary-bridge-childrens-foundation/), The Humane Society of Tacoma & Pierce County (https://www.thehumanesociety.org/ways-to-give/memorials-and-tributes/) or Emergency Food Network (https://give.efoodnet.org/give)
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