Charlene Kovach

Charlene J. Kovach of Kalamazoo, MI, age 88, passed away Thursday, April 30 in Kalamazoo of natural causes. She was born May 9, 1931 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Versal and Jeanette (Petersen) Shay.

The family moved to Portage where she eventually met her husband, Pete Kovach. Together they ran a blueberry farm until his death in 1980. After continuing the farm until 1985, she opened a family-run video store in Glendale that later moved to Lawrence, Tiger Town Video, until 1997. She then worked at the H.O.P.E Center at Van Buren County Mental Health until her retirement.

Charlene was a devoted mother and wife, passionate about her Pekingese dogs, and dedicated her career to helping others. Charlene could always be counted on for a laugh over a cup of coffee and was always willing to help anyone she met, anyway she could. She is survived by her children Mark (Mary) Kovach, Dale (Karen) Kovach, Daryl Kovach, and Cheryl (Rick) Halseth; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; children, Kathy DuBois and Joe Kovach; siblings, Lawrence Shay and Elaine MacDonald.

According to her wishes cremation has taken place. Burial of ashes will take place at the City of Portage South Cemetery. A memorial celebration will be held at a later time.