WILMINGTON — Kurt Kovach of Wilmington NC, formerly of Ridgewood NJ, born April 12, 1955, died at home cared for by his wife and sons on November 3, 2023.
Raised in McLean, Virginia, he was the son of Arlene Kalsbeek and Robert Kovach.
In 1980, after obtaining a master’s degree in applied math from the University of Virginia, he moved with his wife Debbie to New Jersey, where he began his career in information technology and software development with Bell Labs in Whippany, NJ. He went on to work for many software development companies, often changing and advancing his career without leaving his desk. His most notable time was spent as part of the Advanced Development Group at Novell working for Drew Major, the Chief Scientist and Vice President of Advanced Development. In 1998 Kurt was named Engineer of the Year at Novell.
Selfless, patient to a flaw, and unwaveringly devoted to others, Kurt was a kind, caring and devoted family man. He especially loved to teach children and worked in a volunteer capacity, teaching supplemental math in school, and coaching on the sports field throughout his children’s lives. During his 7-year brave and astute navigation of cancer, he saw the birth of 5 grandsons, ranging in age from 5 years to newborn. The memory of the times he spent with his grandchildren is something his sons will always carry in their hearts.
He is survived by his wife Debbie of 45 years (née Singer). Kurt and Debbie were inseparable. Together they enjoyed the art, music, cafes and bistros of New York City; together they created elaborate flower gardens in the homes where they lived; together they travelled abroad with and without their sons. In their years in North Carolina, they spent countless hours in the ocean at Wrightsville Beach, and in the pandemic era, they drove to Florida to spend their winters e-biking as well as searching for and photographing birds; this passion for birds is one that they shared across a lifetime with their sons. Kurt was wonderful at new ideas, formulating solutions, and making plans.
Kurt and Debbie’s sons are Neal Kovach (Meghan) of Washington DC and Paul Kovach (Marina) of Raleigh NC. Kurt’s grandsons are Crosby, Bode, Wesley, Roscoe and Sam. Kurt is further survived by his sister Sandy (Danian) Heron of Northville, Michigan, nephew Joe Duprey of Ann Arbor, Michigan and his brother ordained minister and professor Dr. Stephen Kovach (Sue) of El Paso, Texas. He is also survived by his beloved, and now elderly, dachshunds Ginger and Chester who brought him constant and unmeasurable joy and helped him endure many physical challenges.
Donations in his memory can be made to The Nature Conservancy.
Kurt touched the hearts of many people but will be deeply and forever missed by his immediate family…his sons and grandsons representing his most profound legacy.
A private memorial at the ocean is planned.
Please leave memories and condolences for Kurt’s family here.
