Sarah Esther Nowak, age 98, died January 8, 2018, after a brief illness resulting from congestive heart failure. A native of New Orleans, she had resided in the Lake Vista neighborhood since 1953. She was the beloved wife of Jacob Nowak from 1940 until his death in 1993, and the loving mother of Gerald Nowak (died in infancy), Ronald Max Nowak, and Caren Bette Nowak. She also is survived by her daughter-in-law, Helena (Li) Nowak, son-in-law, Allen Rosenzweig, granddaughter, Tiffany N. Tran, and two great grandchildren, Johnny and Lily Tran. She was the daughter of Leon and Yetta Kancher and the sister of Samuel and David Kancher and Alice Kancher Kisner, all of whom predeceased her.

The very essence of nurturing care, Esther provided unwavering love and support to her immediate and extended family throughout her life. Selfless and entirely giving, she always placed the welfare of others above her own. She adored children and doted on her pet dogs from childhood to recent years. For much of her married life she worked long hours in the family clothing business. She enjoyed cooking, reading, gardening, cruises, and casino games, and participated enthusiastically in family activities until just weeks before her passing.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service at Gates of Prayer Cemetery, 1411 Joseph St, New Orleans, on Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at 1:00 PM. with Rabbi Robert Loewy officiating. Memorial donations may be made to Zeus’ Rescues, 2520 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70015 or SpayMart, 6601 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70003.Condolences may be expressed online at www.tharpsontheimerfh.com.