Norman Kovacs

Norman Kovacs, 83, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024, with his children by his side at Cleveland Metro Health Center following a brief illness.

He was born in Ashtabula, Ohio on August 14, 1940, the son of Stephen and Dolores (Bourdeau) Kovacs.

Norman was a proud member of the second graduating class of St. John High School in 1958. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and honorably served his country for many years in both Germany and Korea. Following his military service, he returned home to work at the Union Carbide and Elkem Metals plant in Ashtabula until his retirement.

Norm was a devout, lifelong Catholic. He attended mass as often as possible, always with his Scapular on his heart. He considered Ashtabula his only home, loving the warm summers and tolerating the cold winters and lake effect snow.

He was a skilled carpenter, respectable gardener, and occasional miniature golf champion. He loved watching old movies and listening to vintage Blues and Country music, especially with his new friend Alexa playing those favorite songs that he hadn’t heard in years. Above all, Norm was a dedicated and loyal dad, grandpa, brother, friend, co-worker, and neighbor who had a big smile and generous spirit. He enjoyed sharing stories and laughs with everyone, usually over his favorite Italian food and a drink or two (or more). He never forgot anyone’s birthday, especially his beloved grandkids.

He leaves behind a family who will miss him dearly; his children: Jennifer (Paul) Kovacs, Ernie (Georgia) Kovacs, and Michael Kovacs; his grandchildren: Boden, Sloane, Max, Sidney, Leo, and Penny; his siblings: Virginia “Sissy” (Mickey) Rood and Mark Kovacs; his sisters-in-law: Lita Kovacs, Colleen Kovacs and Patti Kovacs; as well as numerous nieces and nephews that “Uncle Norm” loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Stephen Kovacs, and his siblings: John Kovacs, Marilyn Carr, Michael Kovacs, Raymond Kovacs and Kenneth Kovacs.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Mt. Carmel Church, 1200 E. 21st Street in Ashtabula from 10:00a-11:00a with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00a. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or memorial contributions, donations can be made in Norm’s honor to Catholic charities or non-profit groups benefiting U.S. military veterans.

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