He was not ready to leave this world, and we could not turn back time. Thus Jerry, (82 years old), died in the arms of the Lord on September 23 at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas.

Jerry grew up where he was born in Girard, Ohio. He played football for Girard High School and had a football scholarship to Youngstown State University. It was at YSU that he earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. He joined the United States Air Force in 1967 serving in missile maintenance during the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged from the US Air Force, he moved with his family to Houston Texas. There he went on to work for E. I. DuPont for the next 35 years doing domestic and foreign plant management.

Jerry deeply loved his family and practiced his faith with devotion, carrying his values into everything he did. Whenever he had the chance, he would find peace on the water with a fishing pole in hand, a pastime that connected him to nature and brought him a quiet joy. His sense of adventure extended beyond fishing. He enjoyed scuba diving, skiing, and traveling the world exploring new places and creating lasting memories.

At home, Jerry's creativity and skills came alive through his carpentry and in his garden. As a gifted carpenter, he built with passion and patience, making pieces that were both beautiful and useful. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether fixing something that needed repair, building something new, or sharing his knowledge with others. In the garden, he put forth the same dedication, constantly tending to and experimenting with his plants. His garden was and still is a living reflection of his skills and persistence, always changing yet always full of life. Tending to them gave him not only satisfaction but also a way to share beauty with others.

Jerry also loved the thrill of football. He was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, never missing the chance to root for them. Whether he was out on the water, exploring the world, spending time with loved ones or tending to the soil at home, Jerry lived fully, embracing every opportunity with a generous spirit and a heart rooted in faith, family, and the simple pleasures of life.

Jerry is the son of Stephen John Kovachik and Cecilia Katherine (Davidowski) Kovachik who preceded him in death. In heaven, Jerry joins his youngest daughter Andrea Louise Kovachik Brooks. Joining too with his cousin and long-time friend Rick Sherock.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 58 years Kathleen (Honen) Kovachik and his daughter Jennifer Kovachik-Lopez. Forever remembered by his son in law Gonzalo Lopez Lugo and grandchildren Madison Nichole Brooks, Savannah McKenzie LaMar, Cecilia Angelina Milagros Kovachik-Lopez, and Cash Allen Hance. He is further survived by his brother Steve Kovachik, his two nieces Faith Kathryn Linley and Danielle Lewis Altaffer, and his nephew Brent Michael Kovachik. As well as his sisters-in-law Patricia Honen and Patricia Broderick and nephews Stephen Patrick Honen, James Thomas Honen, Brian Honen, Michael Broderick and his nieces Laurie O'Conner and Maureen Gorman and many beloved aunts, cousins, great nephews and nieces, friends and extended family.

A memorial evening will be held on October 10 at Peevey Funeral Home, 12440 Beamer Rd., Houston, Texas from 6pm to 8pm. Military honors will begin the memorial service.

A mass in Jerry's memory will take place on Saturday, October 11 at 11am at Saint Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church, 11011 Hall Road, Houston, Texas with a reception to follow mass in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Saint Jude or the Houston Humane Society.