Elaine A. Nowak

Elaine A. (Rudolph) Nowak, 88, of Fredonia, passed away October 21, 2024 at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehab Center. Born on August 29, 1936 in Dunkirk, Wife of Richard H. Nowak and Daughter of the late Henry E. and Victoria D. (Wysynski) Rudolph. 

Elaine graduated from Dunkirk High School in 1954 and pursued her passion for nursing at Gowanda State School of Nursing. Her professional journey as a registered nurse took her across various esteemed institutions, including the VA Hospitals in Buffalo, NY, and San Francisco, CA. She also served at the US Army Hospital in Nuremberg, Germany, the Roswell Cancer Institute, and Brooks Memorial Hospital. In addition, Elaine made a significant impact as the school nurse for St. Joseph's School for Exceptional Children and provided her services as a substitute nurse for Dunkirk Schools from 1985 to 1995.

Through her work, she not only provided medical care but also shaped the hearts and minds of those she encountered, leaving a legacy of kindness and warmth.

Elaine was known for her beautiful spirit and radiant smile, which lit up any room she entered. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her profession; she found joy in her gardening, crafting dollhouse miniatures, sewing, cooking, and baking. These hobbies provided her with fulfillment and allowed her to share her talents with friends and loved ones.

Survivors include her loving Husband of 56 years, Richard H. Nowak; children Jason J. (Michelle) Nowak and Kathleen N. (Jay) Mathewson; grandchildren Lucas Nowak, Alexander and Nicole Mathewson; sister-in-law Christine Rudolph; nieces and nephews Cyndi (Tom) Calderon, Philip (Cathy) Rudolph, Dale and Dean Nowak; great nieces and nephews Thomas and Katherine Calderon, Brandon and Hannah Rudolph. 

Preceding Elaine includes her parents Henry E. and Victoria D. (Wysynski) Rudolph and her brother, William Rudolph and a nephew, Gary Nowak.

Elaine's family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehab Center for their care of Elaine.

Funeral services will be held in private at the convenience of the family. Interment in St. Mary's Cemetery. Arrangements by McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Elaine's memory to the Alzheimer's Association.