Bernadette F. Kovach 1943-2024

Bernadette was born May 16, 1943, in Buffalo, New York, the daughter of John and Pelagia Maserek Starke. She graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1961 and went on to Youngstown State University.

Bernadette “Bernie” was married to Edward Paul Kovach for 52 years before he passed in 2021. She is survived by her son, Paul; daughter, Annmarie Brogan-DeWitt (Todd) of Dublin; three grandchildren, Margaret, Elisabeth and Colin Brogan; her sister, Fran Petras (John) of Cincinnati; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Pat Wiley; and brother, Vincent.

Bernie spent her career as a medical technologist, running the labs for Drs. Lipton, Nash, Kennedy, Shina and McDaniel over the years. She was excellent at what she did and the patients adored her. She was able to retire early to help care for her three grandchildren, whom she absolutely loved. She was very active in their lives and spoiled them tremendously.

She was a devout parishioner and active member at St. Michael Byzantine Church. She was always willing to help in any way she could — anything from cleaning the church to organizing the spaghetti dinner or rummage sale. She was also a past president and member of Infant Jesus of Prague Guild for many years.

Bernie was a fabulous cook, baker and entertainer. She loved having family and friends over, which she did often. She would spend hours making everything just right, which everyone always enjoyed, and created special memories for so many.

She and Ed were avid dancers. They spent many years dancing at Idora Park Ballroom. They loved everything from waltzing to square dancing, but their favorite was polka. Even in her final days at her community, she was known as the dancer and would dance any opportunity she could. They were also huge YSU Penguins football fans and were season ticket holders for many years.

Bernie was very social. She loved playing cards with friends, her get-togethers for “Cousins Night,” going out to eat, and of course, her daily trips to either Handel’s or Dairy Queen. Bernie was always there for family and friends going through health challenges and gave her time and energy to assist them in times of need.

Bernie’s daughter would like to extend her appreciation for the compassionate care Bernie received at Danbury Senior Living, and Capital City Hospice for the exceptional care she received and all their support.

Final arrangements for Bernie have been entrusted to Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell. The family has scheduled calling hours 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2024, at St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church (463 Robinson Road, Campbell, OH 44405), followed by a Divine Liturgy funeral service at 11 a.m., with Father Kevin Marks as celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church or The Rich Center for Autism, in honor of Bernadette.

Please visit www.waskofamily.com to view this obituary and to leave condolences with the family.

(special notice)