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John Kovac Obituary
John G. Kovac, beloved husband, brother, Harpist, and friend, 76, of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at his home.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, July, 11 at 11:00 a.m. at Cool Spring Natural Cemetery at Holy Cross Abbey in Berryville with Chaplain Kenneth Patrick officiating.
John was born November 11, 1945 in Carney, New Jersey, son of the late Edward Vance and Ellen Economos Kovac.
He graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University and Seton Hall University School of Law in New Jersey. During the Blizzard of 1977 in upstate New York, he read the entire Whole Earth Catalog sparking his interest in the Peace Corp, which he joined in Colombia, South America where he was introduced to the Paraguay Harp.
John has lived in Front Royal for 40 years, having followed his best friend, Michael Ordower, from New Jersey. He worked for Blue Ridge Legal Services until January 1, 1991, when he, in his words, "He gave up the practice of law for the practice of music."
His love for music led him to become a harp maker and writer of three books, which enabled others to make their own harps. He has had instruments in all seven continents including a PVC Harp in Antarctica. He was also a music teacher of harp and guitar, recorded CDs and attended craft shows.
John lectured at the Library of Congress. While traveling in Cyprus, he recorded with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. He also hosted several South American harpists at his home.
He also designed and built four passive solar homes, one in New York, one in Lake Front Royal, and two at Point of Woods.
He is survived by his older sister, Carolyn Kovac of New York, New York; his wife, Judith L. Floyd; and his beloved dog, Nandu.
In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Salvation Army 357 Cloud Street, Front Royal, VA 22630; Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Court Street, Winchester, VA 22601; or Mountain View Music Studio Scholarship Fund, 217 East Main Street, Front Royal, VA, 22630.
Anyone wanting to sing, play an instrument, or share a memory of John, are more than welcome to do so the day of service.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.maddoxfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are being handled by Maddox Funeral Home, Front Royal.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Kovac
Davy Clark
December 8, 2022
Sening my sympathy & condolences to Judi & Nandu. I will never forget my harpmaking mentor & friend, Maestro John Kovac.
Michael Ryan
August 7, 2022
I waited like an devoted dog for John and Judy to arrive at Clifftop, 2022. My excitement turned to grief after Suzie and Fred told me, Aug 2, about his passing. I miss him. He told me about Guatemala. I went there to study Spanish. He is loved by so many in San Pedro. Thank you John for being you.
Connie Lo Porto
August 6, 2022
Dearest Sympathy to the family and friends of John. He will be sadly missed. https://youtu.be/56YAV83xAh4 A Harpist Prayer.
Martin Bierbaum
July 10, 2022
I got to know John in high school. Talked with him again forty + years later at HHS Reunion. At that time I learned that he was no longer practicing law, but making music. For a time he would send us his musical creations which he played on his harp. We looked forward to receiving them. Over past few years we lost touch again. He was an interesting, unusual guy, a kind soul. I just heard of his passing. No doubt he will be missed. Our condolences to family and friends.
John Whitfield
July 8, 2022
Very sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a gentle soul.
- John Whitfield, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Legal Services
Bryan Cosby
July 7, 2022
John was a friend I won´t soon forget. He was also a friend of my late father. I will miss him. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Joni Painton Gyure
July 7, 2022
John was my best friend since high school. I will miss him dearly. I´ll never forget his knowledge, kindness and versatility. Condolences to his wife, Judi. John will own a large part of my heart forever. May he Rest In Peace. Love to the best friend I was fortunate to have! Love, Baloney.
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