Online Obituaries

Charles G. Kovitch, 91, of Chicopee, died peacefully in his sleep, an answer to his prayers, on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at his home with his wife by his side. He was a retired tire builder at the former UniRoyal Corp. in Chicopee. Charlie was born on August 11, 1926 in Ware and was the son of the late Gerald and Lina (Mongeau) Kovitch. He was a communicant of St. Anne’s Church, a World War II Navy Seabee veteran and a member of the American Legion Post 275, formally 337, in Chicopee. Charlie was known as the “hot dog man” at Stop and Shop in Chicopee, raising money to support the troops. This led him to be the founder and manager of “Hands Across the Sea” which sent packages to deployed troops. Charlie had always been dedicated to supporting the troops and veterans, whether it was by hosting dinners or raising money to support Honor Flight New England. This organization transports our veterans to Washington D.C. to visit and reflect at their War Memorials. Charlie was truly a hero, honoring other heroes. He is survived by his wife of forty years, Alice M. (Dunn) (Kobus) Kovitch, five children, Noella O’Connor of Indian Orchard, Richard Kovitch (Ann) of South Carolina, Rachelle Houle (Kurt) of Indian Orchard, Kenneth Kovitch (Michelle) of Ware and Rita Robidoux (Ronald) of Ludlow; four step children, Judith Dube of Ludlow, Paula Cunningham (Rich) of Belchertown, Michael Kobus (LouAnn) of South Hadley and Brenda Moussette of Chicopee, twelve grandchildren, nineteen great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Charlie is predeceased by his brother Robert Kovitch and sister, Rita D’Amours. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at St. Anne’s Church, College St. in Chicopee at 11 am. Burial with military honors will be at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St. in Agawam at 1 pm. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Honor Flight New England, P.O. Box 16287, Hooksett, NH 03106.