In Memory
John G.Kovatch
July 21, 1920 – Aug.18, 2012
SOUTH BEND — John G.Kovatch, 92, passed away at 1:35 am Saturday, August 18, 2012, in the Sanctuary at St.Paul’s. John was born on July 21, 1920, in South Bend, to John and Anna (Gerschoffer) Kovatch. They preceded him in death along with his wife, Elizabeth J.Kovatch;son, Paul Kovatch;5 brothers, Charles, George, Ernie, Emery and Donald;and a sister, Ann Kovatch.
He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in journalism and also from Purdue University with a degree in forestry.John played professional football for the Washington Redskins and also was employed by RCA in Monticello, IN.He was a member of St. Matthew Cathedral and was a World War II Marine veteran.
Surviving are a sister, Verina “Vera”Eastburn of South Bend;two sisters-in- law, Mary Lou Kovatch of South Bend and Louise Kovatch of Florida;and 10 nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will take place at a later date. Cremation has taken place, with burial of his ashes at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sanctuary at St.Paul’s or to St.Matthew Cathedral.
To leave an online condolence, visit our website, www .zahoran.com , or our Facebook page, Zahoran Funer al Home
NOTE: Professional Football Player. For three seasons (1942, 1946 to 1947), he played at the offensive-end position in the National Football League with the Washington Redskins and Green Bay Packers. Born John George Kovatch, he attended Washington High School (Indiana) and played collegiate football at the University of Notre Dame. While with the Fighting Irish, he was a three-time letterman (1939 to 1941). Selected by the Washington Redskins during the 11th round of the 1942 NFL Draft, he appeared in 21 regular season games. He experienced a world championship as a participant on the Redskins' 1942 NFL Title squad which was of note for defeating the heavily favored Chicago Bears. His career yielded to his service with the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He concluded his career with the Green Bay Packers in 1947, as he played for the legendary coach Curly Lambeau. After retiring from football, Kovatch worked for RCA.
Sources: Ancestry.com, Newspapers.com and FindAGrave.com
04/24/2024 EJS
|