Herman Paul Nowak

It is with deep sadness that we announce that Herman Paul Nowak, known to many as Paul, peacefully passed away on May 29, 2026, in Danvers, Massachusetts surrounded by family, at the age of 94 after a short period of declining health.

He was born on July 26, 1931, in Peabody, Massachusetts, and lived a life marked by dedication & hard work, quiet strength, and loving devotion to his family and his work. His steady presence and kind spirit touched those who knew him throughout the years.

Paul is survived by his wife, Shirley Nowak with whom he shared 72 years of marriage, and his daughter, Paula Bartlett; his son, Scott Nowak, and his wife, Elizabeth; and his grandchildren, Ryan Bartlett, Eric Nowak, and Emily Nowak. He was the son of the late Herman P. Nowak and the late Nina Kanerva, and his step-father was William L Whitworth. Paul was pre-deceased by his sisters Helen Soucy and Ruth Essler and leaves behind several nieces and nephews. His family was the center of his life, and he found great joy in their accomplishments, their company, and the many memories they shared together. He especially treasured spending time with his grandchildren, whose presence brought him lasting happiness.

A lifelong learner and skilled tradesman, Paul earned an A.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University’s Lincoln College, finishing first in his class. He built a distinguished career as an Automation Equipment Engineer at the Gillette Company, where he worked for 31 years. Paul also worked at Sylvania and United Shoe Machinery Corp. His knowledge, reliability, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. Before his engineering career, he also served as a machinist and mechanic, reflecting the practical talents and determination that characterized so much of his life.

Paul also served his country with honor in the United States Naval Reserves in the Submarine Service for nearly 5 years, including active duty service during the Korean War.   Paul was awarded the Submarine Force Prize for attaining the highest standing in the 76th class of the Enlisted Basic Submarine course. He served on the U.S.S. Bluefish (SS 222) and the U.S.S. Clamagore (SS 343). His military service was an important part of his life, and it reflected his sense of duty, discipline, and commitment to something greater than himself.

As a young man, Paul enjoyed bodybuilding and Judo. He met his beloved wife Shirley at a ballroom dance hall at Salem Willows. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, square dancing, and round dancing, and he embraced these interests with enthusiasm and grace. His musical preferences were jazz, classical and big band music. Paul and Shirley enjoyed traveling on many cruises together, including an epic around-the-world cruise. After retirement, Paul liked to play pool at the local YMCA and in later years was passionate about driving his electric powered Ford Mustang Mach-E GT.

Those who knew Paul will remember him as a brilliant man of warmth and integrity who valued family, friendship, hard work, and intellectual pursuits. Paul was a pillar of support for his family and deeply valued his friends and neighbors. He carried himself with humility and purpose, and he leaves behind a legacy of selfless love and devotion that will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Paul was devoted to providing support and care to his wife Shirley, whom he loved dearly.

                                                                                                                                      
Herman Paul Nowak’s life was one of service, family, and enduring affection. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. There will be a Celebration of Life at Mackay Funeral Home in Middleton MA on Sunday June 7th from 2 – 4 pm with military honors at 4 pm. The Committal service will be at Walnut Grove cemetery in Danvers MA on Monday June 8 at 1 pm.
 

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to the American Stroke Foundation or the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem MA.
 

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