Joseph Nowicki Sr., 84

Joseph Richard Nowicki Sr., age 84, of Three Rivers, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 10, 2025, surrounded by the comfort of the place and people he loved most.

Born August 8, 1941 in Detroit, Joe was the son of Joseph P. and Catherine (Stachurski) Nowicki. He graduated from Detroit Pershing High School and went on to serve his country proudly in the U.S. Navy.

Joe began his career as a carpet installer with The J.L. Hudson Company in Detroit, before joining Central Tile & Terrazzo, where he worked for many years as a professional and skilled flooring installer. Along the way, he also operated his own business, Joe’s Carpet Service, earning a reputation for craftsmanship and integrity.

In 1963, Joe married the love of his life, Bonnie Gierak. Together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2009. Their close ties with the Dobrowolski family, which dated back to the early 1900s, brought them to Fisher Lake, where they built their home and made countless memories after settling there permanently in 1978.

Joe was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church, the American Legion Post #170, and the Three Rivers Eagles #2303.

A man who embraced life’s simple pleasures, Joe enjoyed bowling, deer hunting, watching football and WWE wrestling, and relaxing by the water at Fisher Lake. Whether taking a pontoon ride, listening to polka music, or savoring a plate of good Polish food, he found joy in every moment. Above all, Joe loved being surrounded by family and friends — the heart and foundation of his life.

Those who knew Joe will remember his strength, humor, and spirited opinions — traits that made him the tough but loving center of his family.

He is survived by his children, Joseph (Sherrie) Nowicki Jr, Richard (Nicole) Nowicki, and Cheri (Genny) Nowicki; grandchildren, Ryan Nowicki, Cauryn Nowicki, Britt Smolen, Breanna (James) Litzow, Alecia (Adam) Boatman, Genna (Jonny) Adams, Tyler Leiter, and Gage Leiter; great-grandchildren, Ethan Boatman, Ellie Boatman, McKennan Adams, and Charlie Smolen; and sister, Rosalie Kolakovich.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Bonnie; infant son, Joseph R. Nowicki; and brother-in-law, Robert Kolakovich.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Edward’s Catholic Church, 332 State St., Mendon, with Msgr. Thomas Martin officiating. Joe will be laid to rest in Parkville Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Joe’s name may be directed to the Fisher Lake Association, St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Whitetails Unlimited, or the American Heart Association. Envelopes will be available at Hohner Funeral Home and at the church.