The family of John Kovich is heartbroken to announce his passing at Algoma Residential Community Hospice at the age of 74, after a long battle with cancer. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather and an admired and respected teacher, coach and mentor to many throughout his 32 years of teaching at Sir James Dunn C&VS.
John is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Haleen and his daughters, Jennifer Adkisson (Mike) of Burnaby, BC and Joanne Kovich (Jason Sproule) of Sault Ste. Marie. His 3 precious grandsons were the light of his life. Gavin and Dillan Adkisson of Burnaby and his soccer buddy, Aidan Robinson, of Sault Ste. Marie.
Mourning his passing also are his sisters; Olga Lever (Dean) of South Carolina, Gloria Sheppard (late Wayne) of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and Linda Dundas (Scott) of Upper Island Lake, and his brother Paul (Alice) of Sault Ste. Marie and his cousins Gerry Miach (Gail) and Joe Krancevich (late Patty) both of Sault Ste. Marie.
Also mourning his loss are his brothers-in-law; Alan Hallworth (Krista), Bob Hallworth (Patti) and Harry Hallworth (Ann) all of Brighton, Ontario and Margo and Peter McNamara of Bradford, Ontario. John is also survived by many special nieces and nephews and great niece and nephews scattered throughout Canada and the United States.
Many students, colleagues, players, golfing buddies and hockey friends will be missing his wisdom, his kindness, his compassion and his integrity.
The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses at the Cancer Clinic at S.A.H, his doctors who did everything possible to prolong his time with us, his caring Bayshore nurses, especially Jennifer and Susie and all of the incredible nurses, PSW's, staff and volunteers at ARCH for giving John back to us for a very special six weeks. Thanks also to the many neighbours and friends who supported and helped out John and his family throughout a very difficult 14 months.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E, 705-759-2522). A small family ceremony will be held on Tuesday, March 12, 2019. The family would then like you to join us for John's Celebration of Life at Grand Gardens Downtown located at 68 Dennis Street from 3:00 - 6:00pm.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations in John's name to be directed to ARCH or the Cancer Clinic at S.A.H.