Joseph Michael Novi

Doctor Joseph Michael Novi, of Toledo, Ohio, formerly of Columbus, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on July 12. He was 57.

Joe’s loss was shocking, striking the heart of many. His compassionate, driven nature was cultivated by his parents, Joe and Sue Novi, along with the Hillsborough, New Jersey, community in which he grew up. They raised a man worthy of the many accolades he received throughout his life. He leaves a gift of strength and beauty. 

Joe’s competitive nature led him to Brown University, where he completed his undergraduate education while playing football for the Brown Bears. Joe received his Doctor of Osteopathy degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He chose to enter the field of obstetrics and gynecology at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania. 

Tenure as chief of the OB-GYN department at Geisinger prepared him for a fellowship in the subspecialty of urogynecology at the University of Pennsylvania. At the time, there were fewer than 50 board-certified urogynecologists in the world, and this fellowship solidified Joe’s reputation as a pioneer in his field. His legacy includes training and mentoring several residents and increasing the availability and quality of care for many patients and their families. Joe’s humanitarian spirit found expression in numerous surgical mission trips to Africa, where he helped restore women’s lives in Eritrea, Mali, and the Central African Republic through fistula repair and field training of local doctors. 

Anyone who came in contact with Joe knows he was kind, caring, and full of compassion. He had an immense passion for his wife, Traci, and always wanted “one more hug.” Joe’s positivity and gentleness made those around him feel beyond special. His family and friends will grieve his absence more than words can describe. To honor Joe’s wishes and his modest, loving demeanor, we quote from what is lovingly referred to as “Joseph’s Pearls of Wisdom”: “Let those you love know you love them, share your knowledge, and always ask for one more hug.”

Joe was a loving son, brother, husband, and father, and was “Pop” to the sparkle of his eye, Wren. He is survived by his mother, Maria Sue Novi of Hillsborough, New Jersey; wife and love of his life, Traci; children Brian (Dana), Meaghan, Whitnee (Kevin), and Wade; granddaughter Wren; siblings, Ralph Novi (Robin), Doreen Szeflinski (Mike), and Dawn Strauch (Jeff); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Novi.

A private service was held in New Jersey on Saturday, July 18. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of life, which will be held on Sunday, August 2, at Franklin Park Conservatory at the Wells Barn and Lawn, 1777 E. Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio, from noon to 3 p.m. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, those attending are asked to wear a mask and maintain physical distancing. Online condolences may be shared at walkerfuneralhomes.com.