Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Stephen "Chunk" Kovalyak
FUNERAL HOME
Stephen Kovalyak Obituary
He was born on August 18, 1966, in Ridgway, the son of the late Michael S. and Veronica Cuneo Kovalyak.
He is survived by his fiancé of nearly 26 years, Laura Schlimm, whom Steve's kids lovingly referred to as their "Favorite almost step-mom".
A proud graduate of Ridgway High School, Chunk went on to achieve an Associate's Degree, paving the way for his successful career as a machinist at SGL, where he worked for many years in the carbon industry.
A man of many interests, Chunk found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He cherished the moments spent going on Jeep rides with Laura, and felt an exhilarating freedom on his Harley. An avid fly fisherman and hunter, Chunk often combined his love for nature with his passion for woodworking, showcasing impressive talent in creating beautiful pieces that will be remembered. He could often be found in his garage, where he brought his creativity to life and enjoyed the company of many.
In addition to his fiancé, he is survived by 2 daughters; Sydney Kovalvak of Johnsonburg and Samantha Kovalyak of Pittsburgh, 2 sisters; Brenda (Jeff) Meyer of St. Marys and Donna Becker (Lucy Egger) of Ridgway. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Christine Geer.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Kimberly Kovalyak.
A Celebration of Life for Stephen M. Kovalyak will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA, 15853, with Pastor Matthew Williams officiating.
Burial will follow at Lake City Cemetery.
Family and friends will be received on Friday at Krise Funeral Home from 3:00 PM until the time of service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Elk County Human Society, 1029 E Eschbach Rd, St Marys, PA 15857.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements, and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Kovalyak
Sponsored by Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LLC - Ridgway.
4 Entries
Siobhan voss
Yesterday
Laura Todd and I were so sad to hear about Steve's passing. We would come give you a hug if we could but we are not in the area at the moment. We will miss seeing his smiling face at the moose.
Bonnie Crowley
September 11, 2025
Donna, Lucy and all his loved ones I know Stephen was loved greatly by all you.
I am so sorry for the tragic loss of his light . May you bring comfort to each other
and share in his memory.
Deb Stahli
September 11, 2025
Works can not express the sadness in my heart. Though I haven't seen him in years, he was a big part of my and my children's life at one time. I remember when his dad got him his 1st motorcycle on his 18th birthday, taking his graduation pictures, Christmas parties at my home, giving him rides back to trade school, his wedding , his buying his home. He was part of our family . He was loved. He will be missed.RIP Chunk
Delhunty´s
September 10, 2025
Laura and Steve would come over for campfires once in awhile, going to miss Steve going on and on about something or other. Going to miss Steve riding his Harley or jeep by the house and always waving hello. Laura your in our thoughts and prayers.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Stephen Kovalyak's name
Memorial Events
for Stephen Kovalyak
Funeral services provided by:
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LLC - Ridgway130 Center St, Ridgway, PA 15853
How to support Stephen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Stephen Kovalyak's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
