Ruth Marie Novacek (nee Burger) died at her home on Monday, May 24, 2010 at age 58 after a courageous ten-month battle with cancer.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 9 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 11401 Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC 27613. Interment will follow at the columbarium at the church.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 35 years Richard Novacek, son Kelsey Novacek, daughter Katherine Novacek, mother Mary Isabelle Burger of Fairview Park, OH, siblings Mary Louise Burger of Phoenix, AZ, Eileen White and husband Byron of Coldwater, MI, John Burger of San Ramon, CA, David Burger and wife Amy of Buckeye, AZ, and niece Mary Katherine Bystricky Hagenian and husband Chris of Scottsdale, AZ. Mrs. Novacek was preceded in death by her father John Burger.

Ruth excelled at tackling challenging projects, helping people through difficulties in their lives, and championing the truth. She was a devoted and loved wife and mother whose energy, spirit and kindness will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, c/o William Kim Lab for Ruth Novacek, 450 West Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599.