Robert B. Novatnak, Sr., 83, of Brandonville passed on Sunday afternoon, October 11th, 2026, at the Lehigh Valley -Hazleton Hospital surrounded by his three children. 

He was born at Locust Mountain Hospital on September 4th, 1943, to Daniel and Velma (Van Blargan) Novatnak. Robert was a 1961 graduate of West Hazleton High School and worked as a welder, most recently at Weatherly Castings & Machine Company, prior to his retirement. 

He was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Brandonville, a charter member of the Ringtown Lion’s Club, and a member of the Ringtown American Legion.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley (Bley), brothers John Rushinock, Daniel and Paul Novatnak, and a sister Melissa.

Robert is survived by his children, Donna (Gene) Lombardo of Hazle Township, Nadine Novatnak-Lafey of Bethlehem, and Robert, Jr. of Brandonville; two sisters, his grandchildren Christiana Regina Lombardo and James Robert Lafey, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held on Thursday evening from 6-8 at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home at 412 West Main Street in Ringtown. Funeral Services will be held on Friday at 11 o’clock at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 15 W. Park Ave. Brandonville. A viewing will also be held at the church from 10-11 AM prior to the service. 

Bob will be laid to rest in the Brandonville Union Cemetery, immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Brandonville Union Sunday School.

You may leave an online condolence at www.ringtownfuneral.com