Kristi Nowak-Bower

Kristi Helen Nowak-Bower, 58, Holcombe (formerly of Wausau), died Sunday October 5, 2014 at Ministry St. Clare's Hospital, Weston with her beloved husband, Dale, at her side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Kris was born August 9, 1956 in Wausau to George and Shirley (LeGault) Nowak. She was a headstrong woman who lived life on her terms. Once Kris set her mind to something, she accomplished her goals. Her wonderful sense of humor and warm, inviting personality endured Kris to people. She was generous to the point of thinking of others long before herself.

Kris was always meticulous about her appearance. She made sure her nails matched her jewelry and everything matched her clothing, often with her favorite color, purple, being present in her ensemble. Kris loved to shop, and took every opportunity to head out with coupons in hand to find something for one of her girls. Her loving spirit was also present in her love for animals, especially dogs and cats. During quiet afternoons, Kris could often be found sitting in her favorite chair at home, wrapped in a thick blanket, cat on her lap reading one of her many books. She was also a wonderful cook and baker, loved decorating her home, working on many craft projects and playing games either with friends and family or online.

Kris will be missed by all those who were fortunate to have been touched by her generous spirit. To her nieces and great-nieces, Aunty TT will continue to watch over you and she loves you.

Kris is survived by her husband of 22 years, Dale; parents, George and Shirley Nowak; step-children, Kimberly Bower and Matthew Bower; nieces, Krystal, Nicole and Lauren; grandnieces, Makenzie, Khloe and Kylie; brothers, Trent Nowak and Todd Nowak; aunts, Phyllis (Arlin) Jolin and Arlyce (Warren) Drews; feline companion, Jezabel; and extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her brother, Bradley John Nowak; uncle, Lynn LeGault; mother and father-in-law, Alice and Albert Bower; and canine friends, Troya, Molly and Nahala.

A celebration of Kris's life will be on Saturday, October 18th at Helke Funeral Home, Wausau beginning at 12:00 PM. Rev. Thomas Hoelter and Vicar Tim Swanson will officiate. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM on Saturday at the funeral home and continue until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Marshfield, WI (611 W. Doege Street, Marshfield, WI 54449).

A very special word of thanks goes to the staff of Hope Lodge who made Kris and Dale's stays in Marshfield just a little more comfortable during treatments. Also a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Ministry St. Clare's Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion during Kris's last days.