Francis Anthony Nowak

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Francis Anthony Nowak Jr   Brockport, NY, returned to his Heavenly Father on April 8, 2023 at age 62. Frank was extremely generous, ambitious, faithful, and incredibly hard-working. He was a visionary with a passionate spirit who continually sought out truth. He was his wife Esther’s best friend, and they worked together as an inseparable team. He was a role model and companion to each of his children, as well as a playmate and buddy to his grandchildren. He readily extended his time, resources, and wisdom to all those he encountered. His whole life was shaped by his faith in Jesus. Having a heart after God’s own heart, Frank always shared his faith eagerly with those he encountered. His love for his family and life was unmeasurable. Frank enjoyed many hobbies and interests including golfing, taking walks and biking with Esther, fishing, writing, reading, discussing politics, seeing independent films, and listening to a variety of music. He was a huge fan of the Detroit Tigers, Buffalo Sabres, and Buffalo Bills. Frank loved spending time with his family, especially vacationing in Cape Cod together, enjoying the great outdoors, and cooking his greens & beans and bolognese for gatherings. He loved attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and recitals and enjoyed exploring museums, gardens, state parks, and historical sites with his crew. Frank loved experiencing other cultures and traveled to England, France, Switzerland, Italy, Australia, and China. He believed that food was the sixth love language and explored restaurants and cafes wherever he went. He was always on the hunt for the best cappuccino and biscotti, and he was often heard asking, “Should we go get a slice?” Frank had a great sense of humor, always fostering joy and laughter wherever he went. Frank was the founder and president of Agape Physical Therapy, OnusOne, and Novi’s Golf Simulators. He was a board member for the Center 4 Hope. He was a member of Brook-Lea Country Club and Mill Creek Golf Club. Frank is predeceased by his sister Theresa and brother David. Frank is survived by Esther Nowak (nee Fink), his precious wife of 38 years, his parents Francis Anthony Nowak Sr and Josephine Nowak (nee Dalessandro), siblings Sharon, Mary (Wayne) Juda, Elizabeth (Keith) Bevelacqua, and John (Migdalia) Nowak, his children, Rebekah and Samuel Updike, Adam and Hannah Nowak, Isaac and Rachel Nowak, Luke Nowak and fiancé Danielle Allen, Justus Nowak, Zachary Nowak and girlfriend Lauren Gatewood, Josiah Nowak and fiancé Gabriella Mancini, Talia and Michael DiCrasto, and Gabriel Nowak, his grandchildren Addison, Ava, Aurora, Asher, Everleigh, Alexander, and future grandchildren to come, and a host of adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. It’s impossible to completely articulate the impact that Frank had on the lives of the people around him. He was the rock of his family, the love of his wife’s life, and his larger-than-life presence will be missed always. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Center 4 Hope, a not-for-profit that supports the community by providing food, medical care, employment, and financial counseling. www.center4hopegreece.org A Celebration of Life service will be held at Hope Church on Saturday, April 15th at 1 pm, for all that would like to attend. 1301 Vintage Lane, Rochester, NY, 14626. In tribute to Frank’s love of color, guests are invited to wear joyful colors, or golf attire, if guests share Frank’s passion for golf.    

38 Comments

  1. Brad Moody on April 11, 2023 at 5:20 pm

    Frank was an amazing man. He made a better person through knowing him. I always admired his patience and how he out his family first. Matt and I enjoyed so many hockey and golf trips with the family. I am at a. Loss for words of his impact in our lives. He will be dearly missed but loved forever



  2. Sanchez Family on April 11, 2023 at 5:38 pm

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  3. Jamie Smith on April 11, 2023 at 5:44 pm

    Heartbreaking doesn’t even begin to cover what I’m feeling. I’ll miss you Uncle Frank



  4. Kim Nichols on April 11, 2023 at 5:51 pm

    This is so heartbreaking. Frank was my first PT boss when I was hired at Agape over 20 years ago. He treated me like family and we had many conversations about life in general. He was so very dedicated to his beautiful wife, Esther, and their family. I remember so many great things about Frank. He was an innovator and always had so many ideas on how to build the business. I think just about every work meeting included food! Frank often brought in some of his own homemade food for us to try…and it was never less than fantastic! Frank really helped me to jump start my career quickly and I learned so much from him over the years. There are too many great things to say about him here, but ultimately he was a great man who always had great advice. I’m am forever thankful for his positive influence on my life and he will be missed dearly. My deepest condolences go out to Esther and the whole Nowak family.



  5. Jay Tegze on April 11, 2023 at 6:45 pm

    Wishing you peace to bring comfort, and the courage to face the days ahead with loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.



  6. Tom Calderon on April 11, 2023 at 7:03 pm

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  7. Phil and Becky DiCrasto on April 11, 2023 at 7:44 pm

    Our hearts go out to the family. Though our only time with Frank was at the wedding of his daughter Talia to our grandson Michael DiCrasto, his energy and charismatic presence was a great part of the celebration that day. To know his Christian beliefs were his life’s core and strength is a blessing for us all. We know where his spirit is dwelling now and forever, Amen. Phi and Becky DiCrasto



  8. Bob & Marilyn Warmus on April 11, 2023 at 8:24 pm

    An IMPACT player for the KINGDOM…. Always honoring the Lord with both word and deed. Frank truly focused on the things that mattered eternally for each life he touched. Frank and Esther are pray warriors, discerning the truth though God’s word & spirit to stand in agreement – then intercede for God’s glory. He was principled, passionate and lived his Christian testimony. His life spoke-Jesus We pray a blessing on the Nowak family for the Lord’s comfort and peace as they continue their Kingdom Impact and awesome legacy of excellence and compassion. Bob & Marilyn Warmus



  9. Rosemarie & Bob Eskes on April 11, 2023 at 11:40 pm

    Frank was so vibrant, it’s a shock to hear of his passing! Our condolences to Esther and the whole family. We have fond memories of Frank during the years we attended the same church (especially when teaching his children in Jr. Church!)



  10. Diana Modera on April 12, 2023 at 12:01 am

    Frank- amazing friend, endearing husband, strong and present father, gifted PT, and without a doubt, lived his life how Jesus intended. He and Ester shared the same family, faith and heart. The 2 of them are one. I always think of their love for each other as the benchmark of what true love should be.



  11. Rob Statham on April 12, 2023 at 8:25 am

    So sorry to hear of this news. May the Peace of knowing he is with the Father, provide the family with the comfort and care at this time.



  12. Gene on April 12, 2023 at 10:19 am

    Frank , you made the room shine like sunlight with your smile, and I definitely like the name your parents picked out for you, say hello to my mom dad and family , I’ll see you out on the golf course!



  13. Mike and Anita Green on April 12, 2023 at 10:25 am

    Our deepest sympathy for you family’s loss. May the Peace of God surround you all.



  14. Sophie Krekich on April 12, 2023 at 11:36 am

    Sincere sympathy to the Nowak Family. Frank was a wonderful person and a true man of God.May God’s Peace be with you.



  15. Gladys Velazquez on April 12, 2023 at 12:27 pm

    Frank Nowak – What to say…a man of integrity who loves God and allowed that love to make him a great husband, father, friend, doctor, encourager, humble child of God.



  16. Lauren Knight Miles on April 12, 2023 at 6:10 pm

    Frank was the first physical therapist I had when there was only one Agape PT and that was in Brockport. He was kind and caring to all of his patients and gifted at his trade. I would see Esther and Frank walking in town and yruly enjoying each other’s company. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathies to Esther and Frank’s entire family.



  17. Lauren Knight Miles on April 12, 2023 at 6:11 pm

    Frank was the first physical therapist I had when there was only one Agape PT and that was in Brockport. He was kind and caring to all of his patients and gifted at his trade. I would see Esther and Frank walking in town and truly enjoying each other’s company. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathies to Esther and Frank’s entire family.



  18. Jarvis & Roy Burton on April 12, 2023 at 7:43 pm

    Frank was very approachable. Honest and caring for people. A good Listening and shared his love of God. Glad we had a chance to work in Ministry groups with he and Esther.



  19. Mark Behnke on April 13, 2023 at 6:24 am

    Frank was the best! Always caring, always there. No matter how long it had been since we’d seen each other. One of the wisest and most generous people on earth.



  20. Jim Modera on April 13, 2023 at 6:51 am

    I am sure that I’m not alone when I say "Frank was my best friend". I wrote the following on Easter morning the day after he passed. A Light to the world We come from light and it is light which we return to. The purpose of our time here is to shine as clear as we can, God lights our lantern and sends us out into the world of darkness. Our charge while here is to tend to the slow burning love of God within our hearts. That which is made in the image of God can never be extinguished When we enter this world it rejoices, when we leave it cries. When a deàr one leaves us our only solace is in the heart of God. In these times true prayer is a necessity for survival. The Love that was ours goes back to the source of all love It is only there that it can be felt again. Remember all the goodness that was once ours to hold Hold fast to the people who share your loss. That’s God’s arms holding you In your time of need. Heartache is fertile ground for spiritual growth. The tears I cry are not for My friend that I lost. They are for myself and for those who loved him. For I know with certainty that he has returned to the light from which he was created. I pray that the tears I shed help to bring new life to the seeds of true understanding. The light and the love that we miss will be resurrected this Easter morning. Surrender to the heart of God where he is held. Honor the love we cherished by becoming a Light to the world.



  21. LeeAnn Weeden on April 13, 2023 at 12:08 pm

    Love and prayers to Gabriel and the Nowak family. My deepest sympathies from a friend & fellow Nursing student at Roberts Wesleyan University.



  22. Dale Fish on April 13, 2023 at 6:21 pm

    Frank was one of my students when I taught PT at the University at Buffalo. When I retired and moved back to my home town, Fairport, I heard great things about Agape Physical Therapy, and given its name, I figured it was started by a Christian. Although I’m deeply saddened to hear of Frank’s passing, I’m also greatly comforted to know he loved the Lord, and is now in His glorious presence. Prayers continue for Frank’s family and friends.



  23. Tony Ciko on April 14, 2023 at 5:16 pm

    I am so saddened to hear about Frank’s passing. We haven’t seen each other in many years, but I have fond memories of what a wonderful guy he was, and his and his beloved wife Esther’s love for each other and the Lord. Love and condolences from Sandy and Tony in St Louis.



  24. Michel Macey on April 15, 2023 at 10:52 am

    I am a 2nd cousin to Frank. I used to love seeing him, Esther and the kids when we had our family reunions. In fact I have many pictures of those days! He was an amazing man, husband, dad, uncle, brother, cousin and friend. He was always smiling and happy and it showed with the love for his family. They are a truly special family and he will be greatly missed.❤️ Love, Michele, Jack, Tyler and Austin Macey



  25. Jim and Libby Irene on April 15, 2023 at 12:21 pm

    We are so sorry for your loss but finding peace in knowing that Frank is sitting at the feet ofcJesus! Frank was surely an AWESOME man! I’ve known you guys for years, but as the kids grow, and our lives get busy, our paths haven’t crossed. We want you to know that we are covering you in our prayers. Frank’s smile and tender heart will be missed by many. Today, may you feel God’s Arms of comfort surrounding you and filling you with strength. May each tear drop hold a memory of the legacy that Frank has imprinted on your heart. Praying for each of you in this difficult time.



  26. Bill on April 15, 2023 at 8:31 pm

    I only rubbed shoulders with this fine man. I had the pleasure of knowing Frank only because my roommate was in n his PT class at UB. Even then I greatly appreciated Frank’s solid heart, his cool demeanor and his sense of humor. Even I, a fellow Christian brother, mourn for this loss, even though my last view of his face was forty years ago. May he now rest in the arms of his Savior. May God provide the same rest and peace to his family and friends left behind. We have an awesome God so I thank Him for Frank and what he was able to do in his short time.



  27. Kate, Stuart, and Charlie Macklin on April 16, 2023 at 12:07 am

    Our hearts and prayers are with you as you grieve a truly incredible human. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Frank during Bek and Sam’s wedding week and was deeply impacted by how genuinely open, hospitable, and caring Frank & Esther were to offer us all warm, delicious meals, and heartfelt conversation. To be around Frank was truly to be around greatness. The love he had for his wife, family, and Jesus was truly rich. I am deeply sorry for your absolute loss. He was a treasure. Sending our love & lots of love.



  28. Jody Brennan on April 16, 2023 at 5:10 am

    So so sorry for your loss. Great man! Frank was my first physical therapist he helped me get through alot of pain My prayers and deepest condolences to the family.



  29. Laura Mikida on April 16, 2023 at 11:26 am

    So sorry to hear about Frank’s passing. Prayers and condolences to the Nowak Family.



  30. Lori Rhoadhouse Reinhardt on April 16, 2023 at 2:50 pm

    I have no words. Just believe in God’s plan. I’m so sorry your family is going through this. Much love dear friend



  31. Sandy Wilsn on April 17, 2023 at 10:57 am

    I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Frank back in 1993. He helped me through horrible back pain. While seeing him for that, my son passed away. He was so wonderful and caring. He talked and listened to me during my PT sessions, (and crying sessions) I will always remember him fondly.



  32. John & Joanna Palvino on April 18, 2023 at 8:45 am

    So sorry to just hear about this. Always admired Frank for balancing work and family. He truly cared about everyone that crossed his path. Great memories of our lunch get togethers. He will be missed.



  33. Ron Ciminelli on April 18, 2023 at 11:44 am

    So very sorry to hear of this. Frank was such a great man for so many reasons. I learned so much from Frank and I will always cherish the times we spent together. He truly impacted my life (and my family’s life) in a very positive way. He will truly be missed.



  34. Mark Wolcott on April 19, 2023 at 2:11 pm

    I am so sorry regarding Frank’s passing. As his business banker the last few years I have so enjoyed working with Frank and Esther Nowak. Frank was both a very accomplished Physical Therapist and businessman. We often shared lunch to catch up and discuss his plans for Agape PT and his related companies. Wishing the Nowak family and friends all the best.



  35. Annie & Eric Schoenhardt on April 26, 2023 at 10:12 pm

    So sorry for your loss. We were blessed to have meant such a wonderful, godly man. May you find comfort in sweet memories.



  36. Todd Bezenah on May 24, 2023 at 10:10 am

    I am just hearing of Franks passing and I cannot tell you how much I will miss him. Frank’s generosity and personality made a big impact in my life. My love and prayers to his family…..he was one of kind. I will miss talking golf and Detroit Tigers baseball.. God bless you Frank.



  37. Michelle F Mattick on August 2, 2023 at 5:23 pm

    My prayers and condolences go out to the entire Nowak family. I was in Frank’s ’04 EMBA class at U of R and was always amazed at how he managed to balance work, his own business, and life, with such a beautiful family. He was an inspiration to all, and such a friendly sweet person. Sending you all love and hugs, Michelle Mattick ’89



  38. Deborah violanti (Nowak) on November 27, 2023 at 7:10 pm

    I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Frank. I went to two proms with him and he was such a gentleman. His faith was apparent to me even in high school and I look forward to seeing him again with our Heavenly Father. My condolences to his surviving members especially Mary who I went to school with. All my love



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