In loving memory of

James Michael Kovarik

Beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, of Phoenix, Arizona died on Saturday May 8, 2010 after an extended illness. Jim, who was born in Ohio in 1957, is survived by his mother and father, Marie T. and James C. Kovarik of Phoenix, AZ, his sister Susan Kovarik and husband Dr. Brian Schneider, and their daughter, Kiersten of Phoenix, AZ, his sister Donna Romanow and husband Jake Romanow, and their children Sara, Katie and Emily of Edina, MN, his brother Gary Kovarik and wife Julie Kovarik and their children Victoria, Jacquelyn and James of Phoenix, AZ, his brother David Kovarik and wife Heidi Kovarik, and children Kathryn and William of Syracuse, NY, his sister Ann Laffaye and husband Patrick Laffaye and their children Mark and Todd of Westport, CT, his sister Julie Nolfo and husband Andrew Nolfo and their children Alex and Maddie of St. Louis, MO. Jim is a graduate of CBA High School in Syracuse, NY and attended St. Gregory

Tributes

Anonymous wrote on May 20, 2010:

"Dear Kovarik family, My heart goes out to all the family and friends who will surely miss JImmy. I remember him as kind and polite and thoughtful, just as his parents are. The world is a better place because of him. He was blessed with the most wonderful family that any soul could hope for. And I’m sure that all who knew him were lucky to have him in their lives, and are feeling great loss. With sincere sympathy and love, Karen Kohnke"

Anonymous wrote on May 19, 2010:

"We are so sorry to hear about Jimmy. Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with you and your family. The Lozito Family"

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"How very sorry we were to read about Jimmy this weekend. We remember his growing up as a warm, generous son in your family. He had a goodnatured approach to life and he appreciated each of you. May memories bring you comfort. Lillian and Joe Fischer"

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"Jim and Marie - We are sorry for the loss of your son. We know losing a child is terrible but your care during his last months must bring comfort that he was cherished by those who brought him into this world. We did not know him, but knowing Jim and Dave he was probably a quiet and respectful individual who cherished his family. Coming from large families we know how the "clan" gathers round for comfort and support. His religious upbringing will surely give him place with our Lord. Our prayers are with you and his siblings. Augie and Patricia"

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"I was deeply saddened to hear the news that James had been ill and had passed on. James will be missed here at PCH, he always had a big smile & kind words to share. May God comfort all of you and may you continue to share wonderful memories of James. Respectfully yours, Cheryl Holt RN PCH"

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"Rest in peace, Jimmy. You were a good neighbor and a gentleman always. We know you’re in heaven with Carly watching a celestial Yankees’ game. You will be missed. Your neighbors, Walt, Tamara and RW"

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"My condolences to James’ family. James always had a joke to tell; he would make me smile when I was down. He never had a bad word to say about anyone; he always spoke fondly about his family, especially his nieces and nephews. He was a good man - kind and generous. May he rest in peace."

Anonymous wrote on May 18, 2010:

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal. ~From a headstone in Ireland"

Anonymous wrote on May 17, 2010:

"I was so saddened to see the passing of Jimmy in yesterdays paper.I attended CBA with him and both being "K’s", we were always in the same homeroom.Jim was a real gentle soul,never a bad word passed his lips about others.He had a way about him that was unique and personal,always soaking it all in,but you’d have to pry him to get any of it back out.But it was most definitely in there!. I extend my thoughts and prayers to his family,knowing how much he was loved and will be missed.I’m sure his place with the Lord is secure."

Anonymous wrote on May 16, 2010:

"My heart goes out to the entire Kovarik family. My sincere condolences to all of you. I still mss you as my neighbor."

Anonymous wrote on May 16, 2010:

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Kovarik family. I am so sorry for the loss of your son/brother. I always remember Jimmy being such a doting big brother to Julie when she was a baby. Thankfullly you will have one another to lean on during this difficult time. Love, Jeff, Kathy Gene and Andrew"

Anonymous wrote on May 12, 2010:

"We love you so much and thought you were the best uncle EVER. We will miss all your laughter and teasing. BB sends all his love, too! P.S. My mommy and daddy miss you more than words can ever express..."

Anonymous wrote on May 12, 2010:

"I love you Jimmy and miss you.. Our lives willl not be the same without you. Love, Ann, Pat, Mark and Todd"

Anonymous wrote on May 12, 2010:

"Jimmy was a sweetheart. I will miss him. Love, Aunt Julie"

Anonymous wrote on May 12, 2010:

"Jimmy, you are such a good brother to have. I really miss you. Thanks for all the times you have been there for me when I needed help moving something. Coming to our house for Holidays and dinners. Walking in the mall with Mallory. I have so many memories of you and will continue to see you in my dreams. Much love. Your sister, Sue"

Anonymous wrote on May 12, 2010:

"James will truly be missed here at Phoenix Childrens Hospital.He was always very helpful and had terrific stories to tell.My prayers and condolensce to his family."