David Nowak

Jan 15, 1943 -

Aug 30, 2025

David "Dave" Nowak, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. Dave was born on Jan. 15, 1943, in Ypsilanti, Mich., to Joseph and Irene (Wisniewski) Nowak. Dave had a bachelor's in music education from Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Science in music education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He married Sharon in 1973, and they began their marriage by moving to Anchorage, Alaska, where Dave was stationed. Dave served in the Air Force from 1966 until 1976, and was principal baritone of the 505th Air Force band at Chanute Air Force Base, Ill.

In 1976, he and Sharon decided to make Anchorage their home. After Dave got out of the Air Force, he worked for the United States Postal Service for 25 years and retired in 2001. Dave loved his garden and was known for his gardening skills. Many neighbors would stop by to admire it. He grew the best potatoes, radishes, zucchini and carrots in town. He also loved music and was an accomplished musician. He played many instruments, including trumpet, baritone and the button box accordion. He also taught private trumpet students. Dave remained active in the music community, playing in musical groups including the Anchorage Symphony, Anchorage Community Concert Band, the German Band, the Front Row Seats Band and Tuba Christmas.

Dave was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon, whom he missed tremendously over these last four years. He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Thomas and Donald; and sister, Mary Ann. Dave is survived by his daughters, Sharida and Rebecca; granddaughters, Lainey and Kelsey; brother, Jerry Nowak; sister, Veronica Nowak; granddogs, Chloe and LuLu; along with many nieces and nephews; and many friends who he called family.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Providence at Home with Compassus via Compassus Living Foundation, https://www.compassus.com/about-us/giving-and-donations/.

The family will have a joint celebration of life for both Sharon and Dave at a later date with details to come.