Patrick Nowak, who led the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) from 1991 to 1996, died Nov. 22 in Florida at age 76, following a brief battle with cancer.
Nowak, who was appointed director by former Gov. John Engler, presided over the planning of the Blue Water Bridge, which opened in 1997 as the international border crossing between Port Huron and Port Edward, Ontario
"Pat Nowak's life was devoted to public service and to moving transportation forward in Michigan," said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. "His leadership and vision served MDOT and the state well and we mourn his loss."
Nowak chaired the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) from 1989 to 1991, and also served on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners from 1973 to 1977 before working as a deputy county executive for 14 years. He was a resident of Port Huron and North Port, Florida. A memorial service was held for Nowak in Florida; a Michigan service is expected to be held in the spring.
