Gillard Novotny, 84

Novotny, Gillard, age 84 of South St. Paul, passed away September 25, 2019 at United Hospital in Saint Paul, MN. Preceded in death by his wife, Marion, parents Martin & Mary Novotny, and siblings, Stella Vlasak, Marty Novotny, Millie Morin, and sister-in-law Donna Beckers. Survived by his children, Roxie (Greg) Kronick, Roger (Rose) Novotny, and Scott (Amy) Novotny; grandchildren, Bob & Dan Kronick, Trent (Chelsey), Shaina, Nicole, Bridget, Olivia, and Nate Novotny, great-grandchildren, Cooper, Brody and Alexis; siblings, Richard (Evelyn) Novotny, Alfred Novotny, Gladys Mader, and brothers-in-law Joe Beckers and Leonard (Betty) Cavanaugh; also by other loving relatives and friends.

Gillard was born on October 16, 1934, to Martin A. and Mary L. (Franek) Novotny in Helena Township in rural New Prague. He married Marion Elizabeth Cavanaugh on September 30, 1954, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montgomery, MN.  They enjoyed 63 years of marriage.

In his younger years, Gillard worked as a farmer. Once he left the farm, he worked at Cargill unloading the grain bins. After a short time, he left Cargill and went to work for Armour Company in South Saint Paul. Armour soon offered him an opportunity to attend Dunwoody Institute and get a trade’s job. Taking his employer up on this offer, he began his education to become an Electrician. Gillard was a member of Local 292 IBEW Electrical Workers. Gil retired on February 28, 1997 at age 62, after working for 47 years.

Also during this time, Gillard proudly served in the United States Army Reserves for eight years, from 1952-1960.

Gillard was a role model for hard-work.  He enjoyed good health his entire life, up until August 2019, when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

He was always a man on the move from the time he was born. Never one to be idle.  Gillard never stopped moving, and continued to walk each day around his beloved neighborhood.

Some of Gillard’s hobbies and interests included going up North to his Sullivan Lake cabin, water-skiing, polka music, casinos, spending time with his children, and grandchildren. He also loved to tinker in the garage, and could fix anything. He was always willing to help family and others.

Gillard also loved to drive, travel and take trips with friends & family. He visited 43 states with his wife, Marion. 

He recently went on a special trip to see Molly B at the Carver County Fair, and the MN Twins Home Opener ballgame. Gillard loved polka music, and watching the old time country shows on TV. 

Gillard set a strong example of a life well-lived.  As Thomas Jefferson said, “Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal.” Gillard was such a man.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 789 17th Ave No., South St. Paul, MN. Visitation is one hour prior to Mass at the church.  Luncheon to follow at the church in the Mother Teresa room following mass. Private Interment: Oak Hill Cemetery, South St. Paul, MN.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

www.robertsfuneralandcremation.com

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