Marianne Helen Nowak (née Schmidt), affectionately known as "Toots" by family and friends, was born on Friday, July 10, 1942, on her parents' farm in the Town of Wayne. She was the daughter of Theodore Edward Schmidt and Arlene Laura Elsie (Mertz) Schmidt. Marianne was called home to eternal rest on Sunday, August 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
The beloved nickname "Toots" was given to Marianne by the midwife who assisted with her birth. Upon seeing the newborn, she remarked, "She looks like a little tootsie," and the name lovingly stayed with her throughout her life.
Marianne was the third of five children born to Theodore and Arlene. She shared a lifelong bond with her siblings, Richard (Marjorie) Schmidt, Susanne (Donald) Felix, Thomas (Judy) Schmidt, and James (Gwen) Schmidt. Together they grew up on the family farm in the Town of Wayne and shared countless memories, traditions, and family gatherings throughout the years. She attended grade school in the Town of Wayne and graduated from Kewaskum High School in 1960.
Following graduation, Marianne worked in an office position for Continental Insurance Company. On May 11, 1963, Marianne married Alfred Tischendorf, Jr. Together they welcomed three children: Tim, Tracy, and Tammy. The family made their home in the Town of Wayne until the couple later divorced.
On November 26, 1978, Marianne married Roland David "Hap" Nowak. Their love story began while they were both employed at the Golden Knight Supper Club, where Hap worked as a bartender and Marianne as a waitress. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, family, and treasured memories. This November, they would have celebrated 48 years of marriage.
Nothing brought Marianne more joy than spending time with her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who took great pride in attending her grandchildren's athletic events, concerts, recitals, and other milestones. Whether celebrating special occasions or simply visiting at home, Marianne cherished every moment spent with those she loved.
Marianne also had a passion for quilting, a talent she learned from her mother. Her beautiful, handcrafted quilts became treasured gifts for family and friends, each stitched with care, patience, and love. Those fortunate enough to receive one of her creations will forever cherish both the quilt and the memory of the woman who made it.

Christmas held a special place in Marianne's heart. One of her favorite traditions was Black Friday shopping with her daughters and grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. She also loved baking and decorating Christmas cookies with her family, a tradition enjoyed as much for the time spent together as for the delicious treats themselves.
Marianne was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore Edward Schmidt and Arlene Laura Elsie (Mertz) Schmidt; Roland’s parents, Harold and Martha Nowak; her son-in-law, Jimmy L. Sinclair; and many other dear relatives and friends.

Those left to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy include her loving husband, Roland "Hap" Nowak; her children, Timothy (Debbie) Tischendorf of West Bend, Tracy Sinclair of Sussex, and Tammy (Rick) Matter of West Bend; her grandchildren, Katherine (Nathan) Laschum, Ashley Tischendorf, Jacob (fiancée Megan) Matter, Alec Matter, and Nicholas Matter; her beloved great-granddaughters, Rory and Kamryn Laschum; and her siblings, Richard (Marjorie) Schmidt, Susanne (Donald) Felix, Thomas (Judy) Schmidt, and James (Gwen) Schmidt. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness, generosity, and love.

Marianne's greatest legacy was the love she shared with her family. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Phillips Funeral Home. In accordance with Marianne's wishes, a private burial service will be held for immediate family.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Froedtert West Bend Hospital for the exceptional care given to Marianne. We would especially like to thank ICU nurses Jacci and Mary. Your compassion, kindness, and gentle spirits will never be forgotten. You brought comfort not only to our mom, but to all of us. You are truly angels.

A special thank you to Kathy Hospice, one of our community's greatest blessings. The love, dignity, and tender care you provided during Marianne's final days gave our family immeasurable comfort. We are forever grateful for the support you offered to our mom and all of us when we needed it most.

You may be gone, but I am your living proof.
I am what's left of you.
I am your legacy.
Your story didn't end with your last breath.
It continues in mine.
Author Unknown

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated in Marianne's memory to Kathy Hospice of West Bend, Holy Angels Catholic Church, or Slinger Community Church. These organizations provided comfort, faith, and compassionate care that meant so much to Marianne and her family throughout her life and final journey.