Ronald J. Kovalchick

Ronald J. Kovalchick, 78, of Robbins Road, passed on at home surrounded by loved ones on July 9th,2022, after a long decline from unremitting MDS anemia. The family is grateful for all the care given by Dr.G, the staff of Baystate Franklin oncology department, Hospice, and many aides and friends. Ron was comforted by your attention and compassion. He was born in New York City, NY, on November 19th, 1943, the son of Stephen and Julia (Chuddy) Kovalchick. He studied at John’s Atonement Minor Seminary taught by the Franciscan Friars. He furthered his theological studies toward Catholic brotherhood at St. Anthony’s College. Later, he completed courses at Westfield State College to obtain his teaching credentials. Ron learned a diverse set of skills, from cooking to carpentry, that he continued to use throughout his lifetime. His wide range of job experience that included salesman, printer, plumber’s helper, and painter, suited him well to become a teacher of plant management at Mahar High School. His generous spirit led him to caretaking roles from bedside care to house parenting for Downey Side. After over twenty years, working first as a watchman and then as shipping clerk, he retired from Lunt Silversmiths.

Ron loved simple living and spending time with loved ones. He enjoyed being outdoors in temperate weather, hiking, gardening, and working on home improvement projects. Music brought him great pleasure. He sang lead with the barbershop choruses in Vermont and Florida. For his simple enjoyment, he chose to listen to jazz and public radio. He also learned to play the Ukulele in his late sixties. During retirement, Ron volunteered helping young school children with reading and writing skills, and later assisted with adult day center activities. In the winter, Ron basked in the warmth of the Florida snowbird lifestyle. His gentle loving presence will be cherished by all those whose lives he touched.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Christine L. (Neal) Kovalchick, and leaves his daughter, Laura P. Kovalchick; stepdaughters, Carol E. Schotte and Diana M. Tidlund (Rich); a stepson, William H. Schotte (former wife Jessie); eight grandchildren, Amber, Autumn, Destiny, Willie, Walker, Kyle, Kevin, and Kenny; great-grandchildren, including babies Luna Rose and Delilah Dean; three siblings, Richard Kovalchick (Joy), Barbara Perino (Rich) and Denise Mockoviak (Steve); and many nieces and nephews. Ron also leaves his former wife Christine A. Kovalchick (Dave), her son Eric, grandson Isaac, and many cherished friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday July 30th, 2022, at 11:00am at Blessed Sacrament Church, 221 Federal Street, Greenfield. After which a celebration of life gathering will be held in the Fellowship Hall of First Congregational Church of Shelburne, 21 Common Rd (Access Hall via Little Mohawk Rd). Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

Visitation will be held at 10:15am on Saturday July 30th, 2022, at the Kostanski Funeral Home, 220 Federal Street, Greenfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dial Self, http://www.dialself.org/ or Doctors Without Borders, https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/

For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.

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