Clement D. Kovalich, age 86, of Vestal, NY, passed away at home on August 12, surrounded by his loving family. “Clem” will be remembered as a kind, charitable and compassionate man, whose sharp intellect, strong faith, positive attitude, and hearty sense of humor touched many lives. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years Joan (Gayeski) Kovalich; his daughter Rebecca (Dr. David) Mauro of Burlington, CT; his son, Dr. Denis Kovalich of Endicott, NY; daughter Jill of CT; grandchildren Sarah Mauro (Brendan Tewksbury), Hilary Mauro, Arielle Kovalich, Aaron Kovalich; his dear sister, Regina Harcharik of Mountain Top, PA; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Kovalich of Hudson NY; several cousins, many nieces and nephews, six godchildren; many dear friends, especially Carl Janis and life-long friends Don DeLuca and John Wido, Jr. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Helen (Sitar) Kovalich, of Glen Lyon, PA; his brothers Sylvester of Hudson, NY, and Joseph of Center Valley, PA. Clement was born in Glen Lyon, PA, on November 5, 1930. A graduate of Newport Township High School in Wanamie, PA, he was elected Junior and Senior Class President. An outstanding athlete, he excelled in basketball and baseball, and fulfilled his personal dream by playing professional baseball with the NY Giants organization in 1953. A veteran, he served four years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class by age 20. He fondly recalled those years as ones where he cultivated a disciplined work ethic. Under the G.I. Bill, he pursued a college education, earning a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Bucknell University in June, 1957. He accepted a position with IBM / FSD in Owego, NY, where he enjoyed a 30-plus year career, and his natural leadership abilities led to 18 years in manufacturing management assignments. A man of deep faith, Clement was a practicing Catholic and long-time member of St. Ambrose Church, in Endicott, NY, where he served in many capacities, including solemn funeral masses and as a member of the Nocturnal Adoration Society. He was a Knights of Columbus member (3rd Degree) for over 30 years and will be remembered well for his zesty Bingo calls, a helping hand at fundraisers, and for his impassioned discussions at meetings. The family extends sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff of Lourdes at Home and Lourdes Hospice, with special thanks to Julie.
On September 9, 2017, the family will receive visitors at 12 pm followed by a 1 pm Funeral Mass at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 203 Washington Ave., Endicott, NY. Inurnment at Riverhurst Cemetery, Endicott, NY, will be private.