Obituary

Remembering Joseph Kovach

Joseph Anthony Kovach, age 65, of Jenison, was called to his heavenly home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, September 21, 2019.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Addie Kovach; brother, Dennis Kovach; and niece, Denise Weaver.  He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 44 years, Christine; children, Amanda and Christopher Fleck, Jason and Lisa Kovach, Anne and Walter Scott; grandchildren, Olivia and Elijah Fleck, Tyler Scott, Arianna, Collin, Bailey Kovach; sister, Judy and Jim Sinkiewicz; nieces, Jamie and David Stacey, Kelly Sinkiewicz; sister-in-law, Carol and Paul Swan.  Joe was a warm, loving, caring husband, father and grandfather.  He thoroughly enjoyed his work and being active until he was diagnosed with MS.  Even then, he wanted to contribute to chores around the house and was seen mowing the lawn on his riding mower with his walker parked on top.  Joe enjoyed playing games with the kids and grandkids and taught them how to play Euchre and Pinochle.  He loved watching Notre Dame football and science fiction movies.  Joe was a devoted Catholic and attended mass as often as possible.  A mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2019 11 am at Holy Redeemer Catholic Parish, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, 49428 with Fr. Colin Mulhall presiding.  Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday 4 to 8 pm with a vigil being held at 7:30 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Faith Hospice.

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Chris and family, praying for peace and joy to fill the "Joe" spot on your life. GFS friend, Rol

— Rol Jager

Words can't convey the sadness we have in hearing of Joe's passing. Joe and Chris were our neighbors in Bronson before they moved to Jenison. We have great memories of the numerous times we spent together at our pool, playing euchre or trivial pursuit which is were he got his new name from me. Chris asked us a question to win the game which she was certain we would not know the answer. She asked , name the Gish sisters. I told her one was Lillian and Joe said the other was Dorothy, which was correct. From that point on and forever more Joe to me was Dorothy and I Lillian. I still have it in my phone and will forever stay in memory of a great guy that God took way too soon. He and his family will forever stay in our prayers. Rest in peace our friend.

— Gary and Connie Smith

I still don't understand why God allows decent people like my dear friend Joe to endure MS. Thru the pain, Joe's beautiful spirit shined and I was fortunate enough to have him in my life. Joe whooped me Every Time we played cards & board games, with a sparkle in his eyes and a grin on his face. I play to WIN and hiss when I lose... all in good fun. Joe LOVED that he could Drive Me Crazy! We introduced Chris, Anne and Joe to greyhounds. Joe promptly turned Ginger, into a fat lab. He also helped their 2nd GH, Fred, back from a stroke, by getting on the floor to massage him everyday. Just amazing. Eventually one of our dogs passed and Joe generously offered to babysit our other dog while I was at work. So it began, Maggie prancing out of my car in the morning and me coaxing her out of the Kovach house after work. Most of the time I would stay for a bit and have the most interesting conversations with Joe. He was a bible encyclopedia, into politics, knew his rock & roll PLUS gave me sage advice. I treasure those times. When I lost Maggie, I couldn't get myself to go places Maggie & I would go - including Joe's. Maggie was a special dog to me. Eventually, I was able to explain this to Joe, but I know I hurt our relationship, which I regret to this day. Joe was one of the best friends I've ever had. I can't wait to see him restored in Heaven. My heart and love go out to Chris, her girls and extended family.

— Gail & Jim Christie

So sorry to hear of Joe's passing... love and hugs to you, praying you find comfort in your memories of him and the love of friends and family who surround you at this time.

— Deb Curtis

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