Shirley Novatnak, 52, of 326 Main Blvd., Ringtown, died unexpectedly Wednesday at Lehigh Valley Medical Center, Allentown.

Born in Shenandoah July 5, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Mae (Lorah) Bley.  She was a graduate of West Hazleton High School and Hazleton State Hospital School of Nursing.  She was currently employed as a registered nurse by Hazleton General Hospital in the Gunderson Rehabilitation Unit.

A member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Brandonville, she was active as a treasurer and teacher of the Brandonvile Union Sunday School.  She was also treasurer of the Brandonville Union Cemetery Association and a member of the Pennsylvania Nurses Association.

She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Robert Novatnak, Ringtown.  Two daughters and one son survive: Donna Marie Novatnak, Nadine Lee Novatnak, and Robert Bruce Novatnak, Jr., all at home.  Three sisters also survive: Joan Mensinger, Phinneyville; Elaine Miller, Chesapeake, VA; Gloria Smith, West Hazleton; nieces and nephews also survive.

Relatives and friends are invited to call Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Stauffer-Heizenroth Funeral Home, 412 West Main St., Ringtown.  A religious service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at St. John's Lutheran Church, Brandonville.  Relatives and friends are asked to meet at the church prior to the service.  Burial will be in Brandonville Union Cemetery, Brandonville, immediately following the service.

Memorial donations may be made to either Brandonville Union Sunday School or the Brandonville Union Cemetery Association in care of Jean Keller, 180 Main Blvd., Ringtown, PA 17967.