Ernest Anton Novak, D.C., 83, formerly of Fairborn, entered the life triumphant on Friday, March 7, 2008 in Alterra Sterling House of Springfield.

He was born May 2, 1924, in Osijek, Yugoslavia, the eldest son of Anton and Mathilda Novak.

Ernest grew up in Cincinnati where he was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church and attended Lutheran schools. He graduated from Hughes High School in Cincinnati. After completing his chiropractic residency at the Spears Hospital in Denver, Colorado, he graduated from the Reaver Chiropractic College in Dayton, Ohio. During World War II, Ernest served in the armed forces, stationed in England, where he met his future wife, Irene Victoria Brown. They were married in St. Phillips Church in Norwich, England on July 19, 1944. After the War, Ernest and Irene moved to Fairborn. He was a Technical Translator at the Foreign Technology Division of Wright Patterson Air Force Base while also practicing chiropractic in Fairborn for many years. After retirement, he taught at the Anglo-European Chiropractic College in Bournemouth, England.

He is survived by his wife, Irene; three daughters, Adrienne (Rick) Krowialis of Miamisburg, Karen (Hobert) Mullins of Springfield, Renita (James) Duvall of Yellow Springs; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, George.

Ernest enjoyed traveling, dancing, music, visiting museums, and a good joke. He forbade the use of "goodbye", but rather "auf wiedersehen". And so we say, "auf wiedersehen", until we see each other again.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday March 12, 2008 in LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME with Chaplain Joyce Williams, officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Dr. Richard Darr, Southern Care Hospice, and the staff and residents of Sterling House for their care, kindness, and support.