Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek

Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek

Ryan J. Kovacicek Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 12, 2005.
In a tragic twist, funeral rites for Ryan J. Kovacicek were performed in the same church where he had stood as godfather to his only sister's child. "He was a funny kid, a sweet kid," said Jackie Coleman, a friend. Kovacicek, 22, of Washington, Pa., was killed July 10 by indirect enemy fire in Hit. He was assigned to Moundsville. "He was a brother to everyone, especially to those that didn't have one," said Kovacicek's best friend, Raymond Marinpetro. "He was there whenever and wherever you needed him." He graduated high school in 2001 and lettered in hockey. He continued to play hockey after enrolling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where he was in his third year of study pursuing a degree in criminology. He enlisted in the military in 2003. His father, Joseph Kovacicek Jr., of Washington, is a veteran of the Vietnam War. "He was a happy-go-lucky kid," said Kathy Smith, a friend. He also is survived by his mother Judy. "Ryan had a great sense of humor," said Kovacicek's brother-in-law, Ron Salvitti. "He was a well-liked kid."

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Sign Ryan J. Kovacicek's Guest Book

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March 28, 2023

Johnson posted to the memorial.

October 15, 2022

J Bressanelli posted to the memorial.

July 9, 2021

P Workman posted to the memorial.

Johnson

March 28, 2023

Might be 20 plus years since we did the school bus together but everytime i drive past his families home i think of Ryan and thank him for his sacrifice. He was friends with my brother more so then me but since he was my older brothers friend i always looked up to them growing up. Never remember a time he wasn't smiling. You'll never be forgotten Ryan. Your among good company up there.

J Bressanelli

October 15, 2022

Thinking of you my friend. Thank you being a friend. RIP buddy.

P Workman

July 9, 2021

You are an amazing Marine and my children will know of you. Semper Fi

Leigh Ann Schneider

January 3, 2013

I am so terribly sorry that we lost you, Ryan. I will NEVER forget our lunches together at Canevin, and singing Slipknot together in Chemistry Class. You were a one of a kind guy and no one can take your place in this world.

Shaun Miller

August 25, 2011

To the family of Lance Corporal Ryan J. Kovacicek. God bless you all, and please accept my condolences as a a fellow warrior, US Army, and being originally from Avella, PA. As I often do I go through and look for familiar names when I found Ryan's name. I am truly sorry for your loss, please know this, as long as their are those of us that wear the uniform with an American Flag on it your loss will never be in vain. Thank you for your service as family members, not many understand your sacrifices.

Peggy Childers

July 10, 2011

To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek:
Please accept my remembrance of Ryan on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

One Thankful American

May 2, 2011

Ryan I am thinking of you on this second day of may 2011. Thank you! Because you gave your life we may all live free you were a true American Soldier and one brave American you will forever be in my prayers even though we never met. Thank you friend and god bless.

Peggy Childers

July 10, 2010

To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek:
Remembering Ryan on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

October 17, 2009

I think about you a lot ryan, 7/10/05 I will never forget. Rest in peace friend. J.Bressanelli

Peggy Childers

July 11, 2009

To the family of Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacicek:
Ryan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest symmpathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Kenna Larra

June 10, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,550 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

SGM KCL

December 8, 2008

Judi,
You and your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. Your son will never be forgotten and will always be honored for making the ultimate sacrifice. While I didn't know Ryan personally, hearing you speak of him shows me what a great young man he was.

Charli Welsch

December 3, 2008

To the Kovacicek Family,
I went to Canevin with your son Ryan, we didn't talk much but he was the most kind person I have ever met. I'm greatful to have been able to have known your son. During highschool I dropped out when I got pregnant, and will never imagine what your family is going through but want to let you know how much he will be missed and THANK YOU Ryan for everything you've done for our country and you will never be forgotten.
Proud GF of a US ARMY Soldier

Safely Home

Michael Iezzi

December 1, 2008

Father we entrust our brother Ryan to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Ryan in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathies.

njh

November 29, 2008

You are missed terribly.
Rest in peace....

Tracey Nugent

October 29, 2008

Hey Ryan, I was thinking about you the other day... my boyfriend is a marine, we met the owner of the bike with you on it. I was telling him how great of a man you were and how no matter how sad or in a bad mood someone was you would always cheer them up.

Thank you for what you did and we all miss you

In Memory of Ryan ~ (Debra Estep)

July 10, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Ryan, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

May 6, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lance Cpl Kovacicek!

August 2, 2007

If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 20, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lance Cpl Kovacicek and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Aunt of a Lance Cpl deploying soon

Lorri Stire U.S. Navy

January 19, 2007

He will never be forgotten!

Garnet Jenkins

August 9, 2006

The price this Young Marine and his family paid for this country will never be forgotten...

Rest well Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Kovacieck, in the Mighty Arms of God and may God's Loving Comfort and Grace continue to be with the Kovacicek family.

I am the sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago.



"Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem." ( President Ronald Reagan)

ROBYN GARSIDE

July 27, 2006

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOU. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI



A PROUD MARINE MOM

Jason Matteson

June 27, 2006

My Name is Jason Matteson, I grew up in and around the washington area, and Although I did not know your son, I wanted to give my sympathies, and honor him. My prayers are with you

SK2 Jason M Matteson

US. NAVY

anthony hete

June 1, 2006

i'm so sorry for the lose of your son ryan my famly would like thank you for your son service & your famly's sacrifice thank you and god bless you

K, E, E, and L

April 8, 2006

Deepest Sympathies to you and your family. Your son is in our hearts

Tom Gugliuzzas-Smith

December 17, 2005

My heartfelt sympathy to the Kovacicek family in the loss of your dear son, brother and hero Ryan. I did not know your son, ( I lived in the Easton/Bangor PA area 52 yrs.) but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a young man. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.

I send each of you a hug from my heart. Mom and Dad from what I have read you did a great job in raising Ryan.

Love and Peace

Tom



To live in the hearts

of those you leave behind

is never to die"

~Robert Orr~

Jeff Harrington

November 11, 2005

To the family of Ryan-

I was sent this website today on Veterans Day 2005 to read and honor those heros who gave their all for our country. I am a veteran of 26 years in the USAF and grew up in Washington, PA. I am proud of both my service and my roots as I'm sure Ryan was. I have nothing but pride and respect for Ryan and the deepest sorrow for you, his family's loss.

Darla Francis

September 17, 2005

It is nearing a difficult time for the family of Ryan. The remaining Marines in Iraq will be returning home soon for their homecoming reunion. They will not be coming home whole, though, as Ryan will not be on that plane. But I for one, firmly believe that Ryan's spirit was key in bringing the rest home safe. You have my utmost support and prayers.

Christina Ball

August 17, 2005

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers



God bless

Jill Yacubovich

August 16, 2005

To the family of Ryan and Ariel,



Kov came into my life as unexpected as he left it. In a very short time he made a lasting impression on me as he did with many others. He was one of the nicest, funniest, and most caring men I was ever privileged to meet. I am still proud and honored to call him my friend. I love Ryan like a brother. My prayers are with all that knew him and especially with his parents, sister, and the love of his life, Ariel.



Thank you Ryan for all that you have done. You will be loved and missed.

Jennifer Debias

August 14, 2005

It's going to be a hard school year without Kov.

Kate Kimble

July 31, 2005

I had the pleasure of sitting next to Ryan in a science class during the fall 2004 semester. It was my job to keep him awake and it was his job to keep me laughing. I know we weren't super close friends, but his passing hit me hard, and I will never forget the fun times we had during a not-so-fun class. To Ryan's family: my thoughts and prayers are with you forever and always as will be Ryan's memory.



Love and God Bless,



Kate

Dustin Caravaglia

July 30, 2005

Ryan always made me laugh when we played hockey together, with his witty one liners and humorous stories. I am proud to have had Ryan as a friend.

Kristen Kalakos

July 29, 2005

to the Kovacicek family,

Ryan was an awsome guy...He was always trying to make his friends laugh and around him you could never be sad or in a bad mood. He was an amazing guy who would have given you the shirt off his back..I am privlidged to have known him and to have been one of his friends and will always rememeber him and the memories that were made...He helped people, including me in ways that he didn't even know and I will forever cherish that...

Sandy Deal

July 28, 2005

To the Family of Lcpl. Kovacicek,

Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice of your loved one. I too know how it feels to lose someone you love under these circumstances. Too many times Americans neglect to think of those willing to give their lives to protect us and keep us safe. The dedication shown by Lcpl. Kovacicek, and his willingness to stand up for what he believed in says a lot for him as both a Marine and a person. Again, thank you Lcpl. Kovacicek. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You! I will continue to ask God to give you comfort and strength during this time.

And now these three things remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. Corinthians 13:13

Fiancée of USMC 3/25 Cpl. Bryan James Richardson 3/25/05

becky cook

July 26, 2005

Ryan was a great guy... from the day that i met him i always thought he was funny and fun to be around. he will be greatly missed... i never saw love between two people more than i did with Ryan and Ariel. Ryan you will be missed always but i hope you rest in peace. To his parents: I'm terribly sorry to hear about your loss and if you ever need anything im here to talk. you have my email address.



becky

Amy Goodrich

July 20, 2005

To the Family of Ryan-

I don't even know how to express my feelings about the losses that we have to bear. I know that our brave heroes are gaurding the gates of heaven together. God Bless You and keep all of you in his care!

Ariel Hochman

July 20, 2005

Ryan was my boyfriend of a year and a half. I love him in a way I could never explain. He was the bravest and most beautiful person I'll ever know. There is no smile or comfort like the kind he provided for his friends or me whenever anyone needed him. Ryan is my hero, now and always.

I love you baby, ATK

Jack Kenney

July 20, 2005

Kilo company isn't the same without Ryan. It doesn't feel right that the man, Marine, that I went through SOI with, checked into Kilo co. with, and shared so many great times at IUP with, has made the ultimate sacrifice. When I saw him for the last time before he went out, I simply said, be safe brother, talk to you later. Those words mark the end of our times spent together and his legacy will never be forgotten. Remember. The warriors who live forever, fight on till the end.



God Bless the Kovacicek family, friends, and all who continue their support for us, Kilo Company.

Kevin Eckerd

July 20, 2005

I meet Kov during IUP's Cusp program before our freshman year began. He was one of my closets friends this past year, and helped me out through hard times in my life. He was unique he loved life, and knew how to have fun he was a great friend marine and brother. we all miss you kov so much

Erin Schenck

July 19, 2005

The Kovacicek Family,

Ryan was such a loving, caring and wonderful individual. I will always remember him and the times I spent with him. He will be in the hearts and thoughts of everyone whose life he touched. My deepest sympathies and prayers for God to ease your pain.

Matthew Luba

July 19, 2005

Kov will never be forgotten by so many people whose lives he touched. He was one of my best friends and was so unique that he could never be replaced. Love you brother and I hope to see you again soon.

Leigh Anne Kraemer

July 19, 2005

Ryan was truly one of the best guys I have ever met. His warm character was an inspiration to us all. He could make anyone smile - no matter what was going on. I'll miss him so much.

Vicky Estrada-McKenzie

July 19, 2005

To Renae and her family,

Although we never had the opportunity to meet your brother Ryan, I am sure he is a wonderful person like yourself and obviously someone to be extremely proud of. You and your family are heavy in our hearts and prayers. God Bless You. John and Vicky McKenzie

Darren Coslov

July 18, 2005

I met Ryan at Southpointe Iceoplex a few years ago. I remember meeting him for the first time, and becoming friends with him instantly. I feel honored to have known him. My heart goes out to Ryan's entire family!

Jen McGovern

July 18, 2005

Dear Kovacicek Family,



My husband and I were at a loss when we heard about Ryan. He was such a great person and my brother Raymond valued his friendship so much. He will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.



- Jen, Jim, and Kylie McGovern

Ellen Siet

July 17, 2005

Dear Kovacicek Family,

I am Ariel's aunt and on behalf of our family I would like to express our sympathy and sorrow over Ryan's death. I met Ryan on several occasions and found him to be a warm and loving individual, whose lose has struck deeply into the heart of our famiy. He was a son to be proud of in every way. Our thoughts are with you in this time of grief. The Hochman, Siet and Weiss Family

United States Marine Veterans Inc.

July 17, 2005

Dear Kovacicek Family,

As Marine Corps Veterans from World War 2, Korea, and Viet Nam, we would like to extend our deepest condolences for the loss of your Son and our Brother. Semper Fi.

John and Carolyn Unice

July 15, 2005

Judy and Joe,

There are no words which can express our deepest sympathy. We will keep you in our prayers. May God give you the strenth that you need at this tragic time.

Wendy Glock

July 15, 2005

Dear Kovacicek Family:



Although I only know Ryan from spending three days with him back in February, I was able to see what a caring and loving person he was. He and Ariel are beautiful people and I am grateful for having got to know them. I am sorry for your loss and I pray that you will get through this with the support of your friends and family. God Bless.

Jared Macerelli

July 15, 2005

Dear Kovacicek Family,

I can't really say anything that can ease your suffering but I wanted to tell you that I am incredibly saddened by the loss of Ryan. He was such a funny, happy, good person and a loyal friend. I'm sorry we lost touch after high school. I'll never forget the person that Ryan was and the memories we shared. My prayers are with you. Very Sincerely,

Jared Macerelli

Ted Spara, LTC, USA (Ret)

July 15, 2005

Judy and Joe,

My wife Cathy and I were deeply saddened to learn of your tragic loss. No words of condolence could ever ease the burden of your loss. We pray that you will find comfort in your faith and know that Ryan's sacrifice is honored by a grateful nation.

Raymond Marinpetro

July 15, 2005

Kovacicek Family,



Words can not express this loss. Ryan was my brother and my best friend. Ryan was a great kid who always had a smile on his face. I can't thank you enough for everything you have done for me over the last 8 years. I love you guys and I will never forget the memories.



Love Ray

Scott Hixson

July 15, 2005

Ryan Kovacicek was the best friend I have ever had in my life. He was the greatest person anyone could ever meet, everyone he knew he changed their life for the better and we are all better for knowing him. Ryan, Kov to his friends and family, will always be missed and someday we will all meet up again. I love you bro, from now to eternity

Dave and Veronica Birchok

July 14, 2005

We were saddden by the loss of your son and at the same time grateful for the American Military men and women who go into danger to protect our freedoms. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.God Bless

Judy Sexton

July 14, 2005

To the Kovacicek family,

On behave of Operation Troop Appreciation I would like to express our condolences to you for your loss. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers along with the other soldiers have fought for our country and for the one who will continue to protect our country.

God Bless

Judy Sexton, Operation Troop Appreciation

Associates in Oral Surgery

July 14, 2005

Words cannot express the sadness we feel for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this tragic time. With love, your friends at Drs. Kahn, Trop, Eichner,and Smiga and Staff

Eileen and Bill Jeker

July 13, 2005

Sincere deepest condolences are extended to the family of another fallen hero from two very grateful Americans.

Tracie L. Hall

July 13, 2005

I can't seem to find the right words to say that will make you feel any better other than, He was a true hero!



I myself lost my husband to the awful war on June 28, 2005. Spc Robert E. Hall, Jr. We have a 3 year old daughter who now has to grow up without her daddy standing next to her.



The one thing that keeps me going each day is knowing that he is with god now and is truely safe.



Please know if you ever need anything or just someone to talk to, don't hesitate to contact me night or day. We all need to stick together through these troubling times.



God bless you and your family now and forever.

Margy Bons

July 13, 2005

My condolences to your family. I know no words can help, I know. Sgt. Michael Marzano, my son was with the 3-25 WPNS at Haditha and KIA 5-7-05 at the Haditha Hospital Ambush. I know nothing can help, nothing has helped in the past 2 months since he was killed. No words to say, but prayers are sent.

Margy Bons proud USMC mom of a fallen hero

Neena Hallock

July 12, 2005

I read of your loss this morning in the Bradford Era. I am the mother of US Marine who also fought in Iraq. Please know that because of brave soilders like your sons, many others were returned home safely. May God Bless Your Families

Janie Richardson

July 12, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with you all through this. May God comfort you and give you strength through this. Our sons were true American heros. God bless you all.

Mother of Cpl. Bryan Richardson 3/25/05

Dolores Gembarosky

July 12, 2005

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Henryk Zaleski

July 12, 2005

Rest in peace at your last post in paradise.

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March 28, 2023

Johnson posted to the memorial.

October 15, 2022

J Bressanelli posted to the memorial.

July 9, 2021

P Workman posted to the memorial.