Michael Robert

Kovach

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He was always praying for others and kept a prayer journal with the names of people he faithfully lifted up.

Michael Robert Kovach, born June 9, 1954, in Akron, Ohio, passed away on September 22, 2026, in Newnan, Georgia.

Mike will be remembered as a man of deep faith, generous spirit, and joyful humor. He was always praying for others and kept a prayer journal with the names of people he faithfully lifted up. He put others first and made it his purpose to meet people where they were, taking an interest in what mattered to them and checking in so they would know they were remembered and cared for. He believed strongly in helping those in need, especially those facing practical hardships, and he quietly gave gifts and support without seeking attention. He had a special concern for single mothers, and widows assisting with automotive needs, home needs, and other everyday burdens. In New York, he and a pastor would go out to help single mothers with household projects, making sure their sons were included and learning how to fix things along the way.

He also brought laughter wherever he went. Mike was famous for his dad jokes, his teasing, and his great sense of humor. He loved to tease his son Joshua with dance moves and dance contests, and he was known as such a ham. He loved Seinfeld and could quote it with delight. He also loved comics, especially Marvel and DC, and related to Superman for the quiet way he stepped in to help others without needing recognition. He tried to be cool and hip, and that playful spirit stayed with him throughout his life.

Professionally, Mike spent more than 30 years with Michelin, serving as B2C Digital Training Manager for all of North America. His work and dedication were recognized through service and achievement awards at Michelin.

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He believed strongly in helping those in need, especially those facing practical hardships, and he quietly gave gifts and support without seeking attention.

He was a lifelong learner, always doing some type of research to gain knowledge and digging deep into God's word.

Music was one of the great joys of Mike’s life. Drumming was truly his thing. He loved playing the drums and spent 10 years at Northport Baptist Church as part of the worship team. He also played, for a short time, with the Rocky Creek Baptist Church worship team. He admired Jeff Porcaro and loved jazz, uplifting music, and anything happy. Music gave expression to both his energy and his heart.

Mike also found happiness in simple pleasures. He loved taking short weekend trips and collecting shells on the beach. At home, even his affection had a playful side. Brittany, the dog he always called "the mutt,” even though he pretended not to like her, he was the one making sure she was tucked in with a blanket and comfortable.

Those who knew Mike will smile at the stories that captured his humor so perfectly. On his honeymoon in Hawaii, he found himself being chased by huge birds after carrying bird seed, tossing it behind him in hopes they would stop following him, only to have them continue until he finally dropped the whole bag and let the birds feast there instead. He was also known for sayings that became part of the family’s memories, like “Diet starts Monday”, "Put your sorrys in a sack", and “Burnt”. In another favorite story, while at the top of the Coit Tower in San Francisco, a friend pointed out hundreds of sea lions below. Mike, facing the wrong direction, still agreed he saw them, until his friend laughed and asked, “Man, you didn’t see them, did you?” Mike confessed, "No, I didn't see anything". It was a moment that suited him well—funny, warm, and unforgettable.

Above all, Mike made his relationships count. He loved deeply, served generously, and left behind memories full of laughter, music, prayer, and kindness. When you are asked if you know Mike Kovach, the response is always, "Yes, he is one of the nicest people I know".

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn Kovach, with whom he would have celebrated 20 years of marriage on October 14. He is also survived by his son, Joshua Kovach. He leaves behind Dan D’Agostino and Jasmine, and their children, Amanda and Daniel; Dena Polito and Joseph, and their daughters, Angelena and Nicolette; Barbara and Jay Berkowitz; and his brother-in-law, John Heffernan, his children, Megan and David. Each of them was part of the circle of family and friendship Michael cherished, and his love and presence will remain with them always.

He was preceded in death by his oldest sister, Judith Kovach; Mary Heffernan and her son, Patrick Heffernan; his mother-in-law, Dolores Donovan; and his parents, Betty and Steve Kovach.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 1801 Woodruff Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the church. A graveside service will then be held at 4:15 p.m. at Graceland East Cemetery, 2206 Woodruff Road, Simpsonville, SC 29681.

Michael Robert Kovach leaves behind a legacy of faith, laughter, service, and love. He will be deeply missed and tenderly remembered.

The family asks in lieu of flowers, donations be made to further Joshua's education. https://futurescholargifts.com/Profile/DK07072923388/