Darlene Ann Chovanec

Darlene Ann Chovanec (née Chelkowski), age 69, our beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, in Mt. Laurel, NJ, where she resided for the past 30 years.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Thomas and Joan M. Chelkowski, Darlene spent the first 21 years of her life in Pittsburgh before traveling the world with her husband during his 22-year military career. Wherever life took her, Darlene brought warmth, kindness, joy, and an unwavering love for family and faith.

Darlene was an incredibly happy and charismatic woman who built lifelong friendships across the globe. She had a remarkable talent for making people feel valued and appreciated. Her beauty shone both inside and out. Darlene had such a radiant smile it lit up every room she entered. Her kindness, compassion, and radiant smile touched the hearts of all who knew her. Her greatest passions were her steadfast faith and unconditional devotion to her family. With a special love for babies, she founded a daycare center—pouring her heart into nurturing and caring for the youngest among us.

Before beginning a successful 22-year career as a District Sales Manager with Sarvis Inc. and Advantage Military Sales—where she made a remarkable and lasting impact—Darlene was also a talented cake decorator known for her creativity and precision.

She embraced life’s simple pleasures: reading, cheering on her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers, solving crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble, visiting casinos, and playing bingo with her best friend. Darlene was also an exceptional cook who took pride in collecting and trying recipes from around the world—always eager to share her creations with family and friends.

Some of her happiest moments were during treasured family vacations—relaxing poolside or walking along the beach—surrounded by those she loved most. One of her greatest joys in life was raising her gifted grandson, Anthony M. Lotierzo ("Lil Ant"), whom she lovingly called the “light in her life.” Even while bravely battling—and ultimately defeating—cancer, Darlene’s strength, resilience, and unwavering love for her family never wavered.

Darlene’s love for her children and grandson knew no bounds—she adored them “to the moon and back.” In her own words: “I will always be with you in your heart.”

Her devotion to family was the guiding force of her life, and her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who truly knew her.

She is survived by:

Her loving husband of 48 years: Mark Chovanec

Her dear children: Derek Chovanec, Christopher Chovanec, and Kim Chovanec

Her cherished grandson: Anthony M. Lotierzo ("Lil Ant"), and his father Anthony Lotierzo

Her loving siblings:Jenny (Wayne) CochranLinda (Emmett) GrahamSherry (Cliff) FosterJoan (Dale) SpringerDawn (Tony) GamberHer sister-in-law, who was like a sister to her: Patty LeonardiHer dear friend whom she considered like a daughter: DeenaMany beloved aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and her faithful dog, Flash

A Lasting Tribute:

“Darlene leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength that will continue to guide our family. As our cherished matriarch, she will be deeply missed.”

Memorial Contributions:

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Darlene’s honor to two organizations that held a special place in her heart:

Tunnels to Towers Foundation @t2t.org

Vietnam Veterans of America @vva.org

Celebration of Life:

A celebration of Darlene Ann Chovanec’s life will be held in Pittsburgh, PA, with date, time, and location to be announced. All are welcome to attend and share fond memories.

Forever in Our Hearts

Love you forever, Darlene. You defined unconditional love and will forever be our guiding light.

We love you to the moon and back—Dar, Mom, Grandma, Sister, Aunt.