Jerry Kovatch

Jerry Max Kovatch passed away Saturday May 3, 2025, one day shy of his 91st birthday.

Jerry was born on May 4,1934 at home in Valier, Montana to Steve and Mary Kovatch. He joined 4 brothers, and his sister was born later. Jerry graduated high school from Valier. He then joined the Marines and was honorably discharged early due to blindness in one eye. When he returned home, he married the love of his life, Virginia Ihnen, on New Years Eve 1954. What a way to end the year! He went to work in the oilfields. They were blessed with their first daughter, Leslie, in August 1955. Their only son, Mike, was born September 1956, Karen joined the family in July 1958 and Gail surprised them in August of 1963.

Jerry was the kindest soul. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke loudly. Jerry and Virginia were married 70 years and had the utmost love and respect for each other. They were always devoted to each other. Jerrys favorite things to do were playing cards, building things for his family, fishing, camping and especially playing pool. He played in the Conrad pool league for many years. He was blind in one eye but could shoot pool better than most people with two good eyes. Jerry and Virginia loved to travel to Yakima to watch the grandkids’ activities and head to Jackpot to test their luck, and he was one of the luckiest people we knew! Jerry was a lifetime member of the Conrad Moose Lodge. He enjoyed the lodge and all their activities.

Jerry was very happy and proud when all his grandchildren and great grandchildren were born, and you could find him in his rocking chair with at least one of them on his lap or walking the floor with them for hours. In 2005 Jerry suffered a major stroke. Virginia took care of him at home for as long as she was able. He moved to the Logan Health Nursing Home in August Of 2006 and remained there until his death, His family will be forever grateful for the love and care everyone there gave Jerry. They made him feel very loved and he was happy.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Joe, Merle, Harry and Bob; and his son-in-law, Dick Popiel. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; son, Mike (Kathy) Kovatch; daughters, Leslie Popiel, Karen (Rick) Czech, and Gail (Mike) Klette; and sister, Patsy Habets. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Thursday, May 8, at 11:00 am at Pondera Valley Lutheran Church. A reception at the Conrad Moose Lodge will follow the burial.