William J. "Bill" Novick, 91, passed away suddenly at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, 2012, at his home.

He was born Thursday, Jan. 20, 1921, in West Frankfort, the son of Alex and Rose Novick.

He was united in marriage to Clara Ruth Paul on Friday, Sept. 16, 1949, in Piggott, Ark. Together they shared more than 57 years of marriage until her death Jan. 13, 2007.

In his early years, he followed his brothers to the Detroit area to work in various factories.

In 1942, he answered the call of this nation and proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy and became a Navy pilot, serving during World War II and afterwards until the time of his honorable discharge in 1947.

After his discharge, he decided to become an attorney. After attending SIU Carbondale, he enrolled in Saint Louis University Law School and graduated in 1951. He first practiced in the Chicago area as a staff attorney for Ford Motor Co. Because of his love for Southern Illinois, he moved back to the area. In 1953, he became an associate with August L. Fowler, and later formed the partnership of Fowler and Novick until Mr. Fowler retired. At that time, he formed a partnership with his oldest son, William P. Novick, where they practiced under the firm name, Novick Law Office. He was still active in the practice of law until 2011, just short of 50 years after he was admitted to practice.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Marion, where he taught Sunday school in his younger years.

In addition to caring for his family, he was civic minded and especially enjoyed his membership in Marion Lions Club. He also established the non-profit corporation, Hearts Helping Hearts, which raised money originally for the former Marion Memorial Hospital and continues to this day. For many years he was a member and past president of Marion Carnegie Library Board and was instrumental in forming and served for many years as director of Shawnee Library System.

In the year 1998, he received the "August L. Fowler Lifetime Achievement Award" from the Greater Area Marion Chamber of Commerce, representing dedication and devotion to his profession for 40 years or more. He was surprised and especially proud of receiving such a distinguished award.

He is survived by two sons and daughter-in-law, William P. and Paula Novick of Marion and Walter E. Novick of San Diego; six grandchildren, Adam R. Novick and his special friend, Felicia Michelson, both of Marion, Jay A. Novick and his wife, Devon, of Herrin, Riley A. Novick of Marion, Alex J. Novick of Scottsdale, Ariz., Hannah S. Novick of San Francisco and Thomas Parshudie of Carbondale; great-granddaughter, Leah A. Novick, of Marion; great-grandson, Dax May, of Herrin; two sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Bob Clem and Rosemary Wilkas, all of Springfield; many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; three brothers, John, Walter and Alex Novick; and two sisters, Rose Oller and Vera Williford, with whom he shared a special fondness.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of choice. Memorial contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home or may be mailed in care of Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, P.O. Box 370, Marion, IL 62959.

For more information or to leave an online condolence or memory, visit www.wilsonmcreynolds.com.