John D. Chovan

John Darrell Chovan passed away peacefully in his home in Clyde, NC on January 3, 2026, at 79 years old. John was born on June 3, 1946, in Toledo, OH; the son of the late John and Viola Chovan and the eldest of four children. He is predeceased by his wife Lynda Chovan, his sister Linda Mann, and his granddaughter Mikayla Barrett.
John dedicated his life to helping others mentally, physically, and spiritually. After graduating Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, John served as a Lutheran pastor for over twenty years in both Colorado and Ohio before transitioning into the role of addiction treatment counselor with the Palmetto Rehabilitation Center in Florence, SC.
Ever the explorer of philosophy and spirituality, John's life embodied Carl Jung's five pillars of a well-lived, happy life. He lived life with intention, emphasizing good mental and physical well-being, strong relationships with family and friends, meaningful work, appreciation for beauty in art and nature, and a philosophical and spiritual framework to navigate life, all contributing to being of sound mind, body, and spirit. John's gentle nature, compassion, and wisdom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and by all those whose lives he has touched.
John is survived by his sisters Darlene Anderson and Kathy Chovan, and his three children: Rebecca Faile, Aaron Chovan (Angie), and Jocelyn Chovan (Chuck). He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Scott Barrett, Joshua Barrett (Lakin), Dylan Chovan, Ayden Chovan, Baylee Lawson, Kinsly Lawson, and Maggie Lawson.
Information regarding the Celebration of Life service to honor the life of John Darrell Chovan will be forthcoming soon.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Hurricane Helene relief fund with Samaritan's Purse.
Smoky Mountain Cremations and Funeral Service of Maggie Valley is caring for the family and the online register is available at www.smokymountaincremations.com.