Bernard P. Kovacs, Sr. of West Wyoming, passed away on November 17, 2022 after a well fought battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Bernie’s lungs may have failed but his spirit and will to live were stubbornly strong, just the way Bernie was.
Bernie was 76 years old and was the fourth child and the baby of the Kovacs family, born on January 9, 1946 in Luzerne to John and Emily Pavloski Kovacs. Bernie graduated from West Side Central Catholic high school in 1963. Bernie served 4 years in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, getting honorary discharge. He was a graduate of Penn State and Lackawanna Junior College. Bernie worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as a cost specialist for 32 years. Upon retirement, Bernie thoroughly enjoyed working part time for Michael Baker and Penn Eastern.
He married the love of his life, Nina Amato Kovacs on September 18, 1971. A chance encounter and just one dance, led to a 51 year marriage. Together, they built a life together in West Wyoming. Bernie was a proud Slovak and democrat who loved all animals, fishing, going to the casino, spending time with his four grandchildren, playing cards, and watching Steelers games.
Bernie is preceded in death by his parents, John and Emily Kovacs, and brothers John and Lawrence Kovacs.
Bernie is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Nina Amato Kovacs, devoted children: son, Bernard Kovacs, Jr. grandchildren; Andolena and Bernard Kovacs, III of West Wyoming, daughter Jennifer Kovacs-Peckally, her husband Michael; grandchildren Olivia and Owen Peckally of East Stroudsburg; sister, Emily Murtha, Largo. FL, numerous nieces and nephews, and his loving pets, Sammie and Nugget.
Thank you to the staff and nurses at the Sacred Heart Hospice of Dunmore for their loving care and patience.
To honor the memory of Bernie, as per his wishes, there will be no formal viewing or funeral.
A memorial mass and celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC, 251 William Street, Pittston.