Joseph Kovacik

JOSEPH KOVACIK passed away peacefully in his sleep April 3, 2011 on Hilton Head Island, S.C. He has joined his wif, Emily and son, Brad in Heaven. Born November 7, 1922 in Greenwich, son of Matthew and Julia Kovacik, he attended trade school for automotive mechanics and worked for Allen Bros. after graduation and finished his working years at Grassi Cadillac & Oldsmobile and R&R Auto Glass in Greenwich. "Joe," "Joey" was known for his great work ethic, expertise in car mechanics, a beautifully landscaped yard and everyone would say, "Joe, would do anything to help someone." All of his family and friends will truly miss his support and infectious smile. He was the best father and the best Popa ever. He loved sports, a true NY Yankee fan and loved Notre Dame football. He was a great shortstop, even received two contracts to play pro-ball, played basketball and loved to play golf especially with his best friend, Ralph. He supported his children and grandchildren in every sport they pursued. He and his wife were married for 64 years and lived in Greenwich until 1994. They missed their young grandchildren so much they sold their home and moved to Alpharetta, GA. Again, you could always see Joe working in their yard, because he so loved his flowers. As years went on, his daughter brought him and her mom to live on Hilton Head Island in October, 2010. Unfortunately, his wife, Emily (Billie) was suffering from dementia and passed on December 2, 2010. Still, Joe wanted to have his hip replacement and fortunately it was successful, however, he succumbed to other complications and passed on. He leaves his daughter, Lynn Evans (Rex), Hilton Head Island; grandchildren, Brad Kovacik, Jr., Atlanta, Ga., Jenna Turner, Cumming, Ga. and Matthew Kovacik, Atlanta, Ga.; two great-grandchildren, Owen and Ella Turner. He was preceded in death by his brothers; John, George, Walter, William and his sister, Anna. A memorial service will be held May 14, 2011 at 12 noon in Alpharetta, GA at Christ the Shepherd Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greenwich Boys & Girls Club, 4 Horseneck Lane, Greenwich, CT 06830. The Island Funeral Home and Crematory, Hilton Head Island, SC is in charge of arrangements. A tribute to Joseph may be left www.theislandfuneralhome.com.