John was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, 1944 in Jersey City, New Jersey to Mary and John Kovalich. He was the eldest of three children and survived by his brother and sister: Michael Kovalich and wife Debbie and Carol Brady, husband Patrick Brady.
John graduated with a degree in History from Rutgers University and earned a Master’s degree in Engineering from Pepperdine University. John served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam era as First Lieutenant.
John worked in the oil and gas industry as a project manager for many years which brought him to California, Louisiana and Texas. Once he retired, it was on to a life of traveling the world to many destinations throughout Europe, Asia and Africa. He loved his travels, and learning more about his Slovakian heritage.
John was passionate about the theatre and arts and is certainly looking down on us upset he didn’t get to make the “Hamilton” show he was so excited about seeing the next day.
John also loved his Air BNB Business. He always was so happy to welcome people from all around the world into his home and show them a good time in Houston as he was always the consummate host.
John leaves behind his family: Diana Hansen, husband Bryan Hansen, Jay Koval and his former wife of 35 years, Dolores Rosa Koval. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren Tyler and Jack Hansen. Additional family that will miss John are his nieces and nephew: Carlin Putman, husband Damon Putman, Megan Kovalich, fiancée Chris Von Ritter, Kirsten Levin, husband Brandon Levin, and Douglas Kovalich. Additionally, he leaves behind his grandniece and nephew Taylor and Brady Putman, whom he loved very much.
And a special mention of his beloved dog “Pebbles”, who brought him immense joy.
John will be dearly missed by a host of friends and family from across the world.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, June 16, 2018 at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 4525 Bissonnet St., Bellaire, TX 77401, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army in John’s honor.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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