Dan Lucian Novacovici, age 90, of Franklin, TN, passed away on October 13, 2026. He was born in Bucharest, Romania, to the late Nicolae and Lucia Novacovici.
Dan and his family left Romania as political refugees, traveling through France before settling in the United States. A civil engineer in Romania, Dan built a new life in Princeton, New Jersey, where he founded and operated DLN Construction, specializing in residential construction, for over 25 years.
Dan was a man of honesty, courage, wisdom, and kindness. He had a rare gift for seeing the good in everyone and finding the bright side in every situation. Calm and steady through life’s challenges, he faced the future with optimism, an enduring belief in life, and an unwavering trust that God was always by his side. Having experienced political oppression firsthand, he remained a passionate advocate for freedom and an outspoken opponent of communism.
Dan attended St. John Chrysostom Romanian Orthodox Church in Nashville. He was also a certified hypnotist and enjoyed hiking, swimming, and spending time outdoors.
Dan’s greatest legacy was the example he set: a life guided by integrity, conviction, courage, and compassion. He inspired those around him with his wisdom, his steady presence, his ability to find hope in difficult times, and his faith in both people and the future. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Dan was preceded in death by his brother, Doru Novacovici, and his sister, Doina Sandu. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Emilia Novacovici; his daughter, Anca Lunn, and her husband, Walker; and his beloved granddaughters, Karina and Vanessa Lunn, all of Franklin, TN.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with visitation one hour prior at Williamson Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Rev. Fr. Karol Bratosin will officiate.
In honor of Dan’s lifelong commitment to freedom and opposition to communism, his family shares this video: Watch on YouTube.
Memorials may be made to St. John Chrysostom Romanian Orthodox Church, 4112 Union St., Old Hickory, TN 37138.
WILLIAMSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES | 615-794-2289 | www.williamsonmemorial.com
