Anthony "Tony" Novak of Urbana passed away Saturday (Feb. 8, 2014) at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago after losing his battle with cancer. He was 63.

Tony is survived by his wife, Amy Fuller; his son, Henry; his mother, Anna Novak-Heller; his brother, Rick; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A devoted criminal defense attorney, Tony worked to ensure the justice system delivered on its promise of a fair trial.

He was active in the Jewish community, and was a past president of Sinai Temple and the Champaign-Urbana Jewish Federation.

He was passionate about tennis, skiing, bowling, boating, water-skiing and his friends.

He picked up friends across the spectrum and around the country; he collected people, art, funky furniture, toys and experiences.

He loved a good meal at a dive; pie; his mother's cooking; a good ski trip; a long story.

If an argument broke out, or someone voiced a harsh opinion of someone else, Tony's booming voice would interrupt with the solution that pleased the most parties, or made the most sense. He was a mediator of conflicts large and small, and he relied on a strong sense of justice to mete out his decisions.

His house represents him to his friends and family. It's independent, like Tony - outside of town, out of the way. It's colorful, filled with the quirky furniture and art that he collected over the years. It's filled with the memories that show his life was full, even if it ended too soon.

The house, and the woods behind it - the neighbors and family and friends who frequently visited both can go there to remember him.

A memorial service will be held at Sinai Temple at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, please donate to the Sinai Temple or a charity of your choice.