John Kovacich, 66

John Kovacich, 66, of Butte, Montana, passed away surrounded by the love of his wife, family and friends. Though he vacationed in Missoula, his heart—and his home—were always in Butte. John was a proud Butte native who loved his family, friends, and everything that made it special.

John was born to Florence and John Kovacich and was the youngest of three children. He was cherished by his older sisters, Cheryl Ackerman and Marijane Zevkovich, and by his sister-in-law, Kane Boyce and her husband, Pete, as well as his brother-in-law, Ted Ackerman. Ted was more than a brother-in-law to John—he was also a mentor and an important influence throughout his life.

For 38 years, John shared his life with his beloved wife, Johnna. They were rarely mentioned separately—it was always “John & Johnna.” Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with love, friendship, memories, and a lifetime of shared experiences. John will be missed beyond words by Johnna.

John’s dogs, Sport, Whittier and Kula, held a special place. They were beloved members of their family and faithful companions.

Family was incredibly important to John. He adored his many nieces—Krystal (Erik), Tavja, Katrina, Sheena (Steven), Jayna, Haddie, Bella, and Kate—and took great pride in watching them grow and being part of their lives. He also cherished his nephews, Johnnie, Wyatt, Bentley, Smith, and Derek. John shared a particularly special relationship with Derek, with whom he could always count on having a good conversation.

John’s countless cousins held an important place in his heart. Their bond was meaningful and a lasting part of his life.

John was a devoted Bulldog and Grizzly, proudly following the teams he loved. One of his proudest moments came this past July when he was inducted into the Butte Sports Hall of Fame, a fitting honor for someone whose love of sports and Butte ran so deep.

John’s lifelong friends were special to him over the years, those friendships grew into something much deeper—his friends were like family and meant the world to John. He treasured the people who had stood beside him throughout his life, and they will forever carry a special part of him with them.

John leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family of relatives and friends who will carry his love, laughter, stories, and unmistakable Butte spirit.

It was always John & Johnna. And it always will be.

Visitation will commence Wednesday, September 30th, at 5:30 p.m. and prayer service at 6:00 p.m.

Divine Liturgy will commence on Thursday, October 1st, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, 2100 Continental Dr. Internment at Mountain View Cemetery. Reception to follow at the Butte Country Club