Tribute

On Tuesday, November 1, 2011 Steve Kovacs, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loved ones, in Oliver Palliative Care. Steve was preceded by his mother Rose Kovacs and father Louie Kovacs. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Violet Marie Kovacs, and daughters Colleen Anderson (Garnet), Jennifer Buhrmann (Kevin) and Eva-Marie Kovacs-Kowalke (Darren). Seven grandchildren; Shawn Anderson (Ashely), Byron Anderson, Thea Anderson, Kaiden Kovacs-Kowalke, Kira Kowalke and Kayja Kowalke. Steve is also survived by his older brother Les Kovacs and hi wife Jackie and his two nieces Chris and Linda. And he welcomed in Kevin’s three daughters, Emma, Laura and Jenna. Steve was born in Padrag, Hungary on September 30, 1937 and in 1956 graduated as an electro mechanic. He then immigrated with his parents to Canada on March 1, 1957, where they landed at Pier 51, Halifax, Nova Scotia. They made their home in Westlock, Alberta. On May 2, 1962 he married his lifelong partner Violet (Verbeek). In 1973 they relocated to Osoyoos, BC and purchased a small orchard and where Steve worked at the Osoyoos Times as a production manager. Steve later purchased the Osoyoos Times with his wife Vi and retired in 1991. Steve was active in several community organizations and he enjoyed his time as president in both the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus and as a director on the Osoyoos Golf and Country Club. Steve served 18 years on the Osoyoos Credit Union Board. Steve’s wife and family always came first and were the most important things in his life. The highlight of his life was his return to Hungary in 2007, after 50 years. Steve and his wife visited his original home, where his aunt and cousin still reside. Steve lived life to the fullest, he enjoyed being outdoors, golfed, walked, curled, fished, badminton, loved to dance and spend time with his friends playing cards, playing pool or just visiting. Steve will be sadly missed and forever loved by his wife and family. In lieu of flowers donations to the Oliver Palliative Care please contact Cathy at 250-495-2420. Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www. nunes-pottinger.com. Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service and Crematorium, Oliver and Osoyoos. Prayers are on Thursday, November 3 at 7 p.m. at the St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Osoyoos. The funeral service is to be held on Friday, November 4 at 11 a.m. at the St. Anne’s Catholic Church followed by a reception in the church hall.