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John Kovalchick Obituary
John E. Kovalchick, 84, of Bel Air, MD, died peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, January 20, 2016. John was one of ten children, born to the late Thomas and Eva (Pasterchick) Kovalchick, and raised in California, Pennsylvania. He earned his bachelor's degree from California University of Pennsylvania while also pursuing his passion for sports. He was initiated into the Cal U Hall of Fame in 2010 for his accomplishments in baseball. John proudly served in the Army during the Korean conflict, married his college sweetheart, Dolores, and went on to raise his family in Bel Air, MD. During that time he also earned his master's degree from the University of Maryland. Following a 36-year career in education (at HCPS) Mr. Kovalchick retired. He was an avid golfer and longtime member of Winters Run Golf Club, serving nine years on the Board of Directors. He is survived by his children, Karen, Tom, and Michael, his sister Martha, and his granddaughters Christine, Alexandra, and Elizabeth. A funeral service was held at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church in California, PA on January 23, 2016. Friends of John will be received for an 11:00 am Memorial Service at St. Margaret Church in Bel Air, MD on Saturday, January 30, 2016. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Mariscotti Funeral Home, Inc., California, PA.
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Memories and Condolences
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Christine Miller
March 15, 2020
John Kovalchick was my grandfather. We called him King. He was very gentle, very humble, very kind. I wish I had asked him more about his faith.. it seemed his guiding light, only as I've gotten older have I been able to appreciate his way of life. Reading the comments below warmed my heart, I love hearing about his impact as a teacher.. I only knew him as a grandfather he wanted to provide us with the feeling of abundance..on Christmas the presents stretched way out toward the walls.. There was barely any room for us to sit, we had so many. He never missed a holiday or a birthday.. he wanted us to have everything and he was very generous. He never needed a spotlight although he got one sometimes because he was such a great ball player and golfer. I will miss walking into the kitchen in the morning, the sound of classical music on the radio, seeing his schedule on the board. He really found joy in the simple pleasures of life, it didn't need to be too complicated. He cooked the best chili and apple sauce.. and he was good. Good in his heart and he was someone to look up to. I will always keep your memory close King.
Ed Gibson
December 27, 2019
John was my classmate for 12 years at East Pike .
An all around great guy.
Ed Gibson
Anita Akob
February 15, 2016
John was a wonderful teacher and great mentor at Bel Air Middle School and dear friend. Sorry I did not learn of his passing until returning from Florida last week. John helped me fill many busses on our charitable trips to Atlantic City. I will miss him greatly.
Matt Michael
January 27, 2016
Mr. Kovalchick was my shop teacher at Bel Air Middle in the 80's. He had a positive impact on my life and many others. I am sadden by his loss, but know he lived a full and impressionable life. My prayers are with his family. God Bless and thank you.
Christine Fleckenstein
January 27, 2016
Mr. K. was one of my shop teachers at Bel Air Middle School. I remember him fondly...some of the best times I had in middle school were in his class. He was a very devoted teacher and a great mentor to us all. You could tell that his heart was really in it and his family should take great pride in knowing that he helped teach my generation important skills that just aren't taught anymore. He helped shape minds and attitudes that turned out being great members of society. God be with Mr. K.
Rocky Levee
January 27, 2016
I am sorry to hear about John's passing. he was my High School teacher and I played golf with him at Winter's Run. A true gentleman and great man to be around. he will be missed.
Rocky Levee
Terry Glab
January 27, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Johns passing. I played golf with him many times at Winters Run and considered him a very good friend. May he rest in peace.
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