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BORN
1934
DIED
2024
Rudy Kovacevich Obituary
Our forever friend and humanists, Rudy Kovacevich (age 90) of Edmonds, Washington left us October 15, 2024, hopped into his 1949 Nash Ambassador and boarded his forever cruise ship the Azamara for a very lengthy cruise. He is survived by his wife, Harriett, son Scott, granddaughter Kasha and her husband Clay. Yes, he voted prior to boarding. The original opportunity employer humanist --never a four word to exit his lips. He advanced humankind by setting the example he expressed through quiet dignity, honor and forthrightness. He never entered the dark side of life.
Rudy was born June 12, 1934 in Rosyln, Washington. Family of coal miners -- his mom the best cook in Rosyln and listened carefully for the sound of the Canaries. His dad was the crew boss. His family life was extremely private - lessons advanced through his life. He was educated in Rosyln, advanced art and design degrees from University of Central Washington. A master designer and teacher, he developed numerous advanced credit design and art courses. We all hiked and climbed "Every Mountain" with Rudy in the State of Washington - at least twice. He developed numerous humanity courses and was the lifelong President of the "Fickle Finger of Fate Club".
Rudy loved to watch his son play baseball - never missed a game. Provided Rudy a chance to hone his patience skills and learned to love the art of baseball.
Preceded in death his beloved mother and father, sister, in-law parents and daughter in law. And, yes, his two Siamese Cats and two Dash Hounds.
Grave side private service October 28, 2024, 1 PM, Rosyln City Cemetery, Rosyln Washington.
Beck Funeral Home, Edmonds, Washington assisting with the final details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rudy Kovacevich
Mickaela
March 21, 2025
Rudy was a beloved art teacher to me in the 1980s. Considering the short span of time and how often I remember him and his kindness and demeanor - I can say he has been one of the most influential individuals in my life as an artist. I owe a lot to his example from long ago.
Farewell "Mr K"
Andrea M Faste
January 22, 2025
Rudy K. was teacher to my mother Edith Faste when Edith was learning to be an art teacher. She followed him to the art department in Meadowdale High school. He and his wife Harriett became lifelong family friends. As Edith's daughter, I have fond memories of our visits and meals together.
BRIAN H LEE
December 28, 2024
My father and Mr. Kovacevich taught together at Meadowdale High School in the 1960's. I remember him at that time as a kind and gentle man. 40+ years later we reaquainted at a cafe i was running in South Cle Elum. I really enjoyed our visits whenever he came in.
Sherry Groves Haigh
November 8, 2024
I was privileged to be a student in Mr. K's craft class my senior year at Meadowdale High School. I still have some of the projects I created then! Three years later I was delighted to see his name on my class schedule at the University of Washington where he taught Art in the Elementary Classroom. I used several of his projects with my students over the years. What a kind and gentle man, an oasis of calm in the midst of the chaos of the late 60s and of today. We need more like him. He will certainly be missed.
Gail Roehm Minkler
October 31, 2024
As many have said here, Mr. K was an unforgettable teacher, so compassionate and caring. I'll always remember his kindness towards this shy and awkward teenager. Rest in Paradise, Mr. K. You will be missed.
Gordon W. Rosier
October 28, 2024
My first teaching position, August 1970, Mariner High School, Mukilteo, I was greeted by my new life long friend and mentor, Mr. K. Discovered quickly, he was the most patient, forthright and caring person I had ever met. Shortly thereafter, his wife Harriett and son Scott secured our family. Never met a student that didn't love him. I have loved him since the first day we met. We all traveled the world and met a lot of wonderful people as the result of Rudy's quiet and positive intervention.
As he is laid to rest in Roslyn this afternoon, all our tears are watering the lawn. The sun is shinning and a rainbow hovers at the end of the cemetery.
I am not saying good bye - I'm thanking you for a wonder life as you continue to stay by my side.
Affectionally, G. Rosier
B
October 28, 2024
Mr. K was a fantastic teacher. Kind, caring, motivational and one I´ve often remembered. His Design classes were great. He certainly made a positive impact and will be missed.
Jeff Hegland
October 28, 2024
Mr. K ;). One of my favorites. I remember when he and his wife had a bunch of us students over to his house. We worked on projects but it definitely was not like being in school. In my 30's I met him again at the CD store on Hewitt in Everett. Oftentimes I'd stop by to browse, but mainly for the conversation. Seeing Rudy at our 50th reunion was the best part of the evening.
Kameon Quillen
October 27, 2024
Mr. K was the most positive inspiration I had while in school. He not only encouraged kids like me who had zero artistic talent but he also accepted everyone equally. Such a kind soul who made me a better person.
Debbie Chapman Castle
October 27, 2024
Mr. K. was my favorite teacher in high school! I took his art classes 3 years in a row and you could often find me just hanging out in his art room when I wasn't supposed to be there!! I owe my love of art to him and all the hours spent creating....Although it's been years, I thought of him often. He was the best and will missed by many....
Debbie Chapman Castle
Mariner High School
Cynthia
October 27, 2024
Mr. K was an amazing person and teacher. He made a great impact on my life!
S. Kiessling
October 27, 2024
Mr. K was one of the great ones. He made his students feel truly special and was a bright light. The universe made sure he was where he needed to be to provide love and support to those who needed it the most. Thank you Mr. K.
Debbie (Bates) Brunken
October 26, 2024
My condolences to the family. Mr. K (as we all called him) was one of my favorite teachers. He always "saw" you and took time with his students. I took his design and art classes at Mariner High School 1986 - 1988. Just last month I was out with family and friends and Mr. K was brought up in conversation. He still makes a difference! You were one of a kind Mr. K!
C Wirthen
October 26, 2024
My condolences to Mr K family. He was a fine teacher at Mariner. Highly respected and loved
Anne Mackie
October 26, 2024
My condolences to the family. Rudy was a mentor and wonderful support to me during my high school years (Meadowdale 1963-65). He treated all his students as special and let us know that there is a creative creature lurking somewhere in all of us. Just let it out! My love to Harriett. You were a good friend to my mother, Fran, and I will always remember the special meal she hosted for you and Rudy at our home. I have shared the Central video interview with him on our MHS'65 website, and folks love learning about his childhood in Roslyn. Love to the family of a great man.
Y
October 26, 2024
Such a kind, caring and gentle person. I graduated from Meadowdale high in 1966. He made a very big and positive impression on me.
Dave Smith
October 26, 2024
Rudy was one of my favorite teachers of all time. " This Color is Brown, is it not" Rest in Peace Rudy, you were one in a Million.
Lori Biss
October 25, 2024
Mister K, thank you first for being a wonderful human, your kindness is what I remember most
Julene Conselyea
October 25, 2024
Mr.Kovacevich ("Mr. K" as we called him in the art class that he taught at Mariner High School in the 72-74.) I was a wayward student that he reach out to to help redirect my course. "Mr.K's" concern changed me. In return I learned how to respect him and that there are rules for a reason and I needed to follow them. He taught me to enjoy and have fun creating art because there is no limitations. It was truly an outlet for me.
I have thought of "Mr.K" through the years because he was one teacher I really liked. His talent in teaching art was captivating plus his concern for his students was unrealized until that line was crossed then you learn about compassion.
I am thankful that you were my art teacher. You had an impact on me.
My condolences to the family on the loss of such an influential man who touched my life and many others as well.
May the memories of "Mr. K" always be for a Blessing.
Sincerely,
Julene "Erdman" Conselyea
Rose Rubatino Goulet
October 25, 2024
Mr Kovacevich was a beloved teacher of mine and many at Mariner High School. The lessons he taught and instilled in me have shaped my life. He was much loved and most certainly will be greatly missed.
Deepest sympathies to his family.
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