We Remember
KOVATCH, Josephine
February 29, 1940 — September 9, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of Josephine Kovatch, who passed away peacefully while surrounded by family, on September 9, 2025, in Kelowna, BC.
Left to hold her dear to their hearts are her children Sonja (Brian), Darlene (Richard), Valerie (Alan), Joey (Lorena), and David (Nancy); 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She now goes to join those who passed before her, including her husband Joseph Peter Kovatch and her siblings.
Josephine was born on February 29, 1940, in Yugoslavia, and her early life was shaped by the challenges of a world at war. At just sixteen, she bravely came to Canada, determined to build a better future. She settled in Calgary, where she met and married Joseph, and together they began raising their family. Her courage and determination carried her through many life changes, including the bold decision to uproot their family from Regina to Kelowna in 1971.
Hardworking and resilient, Josephine always put her family first. She filled their lives with love, strength, and countless cherished memories. At age 40, she discovered a passion for downhill skiing at Crystal Mountain, turning those family trips into some of the most fun times her daughters remember. She also loved fishing, especially at Spences Bridge where she enjoyed the thrill of salmon fishing, and found quiet joy in crocheting.
Josephine’s life was marked by bravery, determination, and love, and she will be missed beyond words.
A Memorial Service will be held on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2025, at 11:00 am PDT, located at ST. CHARLES GARNIER PARISH, 3645 Benvoulin Road, Kelowna, BC. There will be a reception to follow after the service.
To RSVP to the service, Click Here
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to a charity of your choice.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.

Service
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2025, at 11:00 am PDT
Location
ST. CHARLES GARNIER PARISH


To Sonia & families, I’m so sorry to hear of your moms passing, my Sincere condolences to you of all. Josephine was a wonderful woman, I knew most of the Kovatch’s from way back in Vibank Sask. Dear lady may you Rest in peace in the arms of our Lord Jesus. Amen.
Joey,Val, Lorena, ,Al and family, I’m so very sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. Sending love hope and prayers to all of you.
My thoughts are with all of you. May she enjoy eternal peace
Aunt Josephine is my Godmother and I cannot thank her enough for all of her kindness that she gave me when I was younger taking me into her family and looking after me when she had 5 of her own children. She is my mom’s sister. The family is all together again and I am praying at peace reunited with one another. Sonya, Darlene, Valerie, Joe, & David I know your hearts 💕 are full of sadness because of your mother passing, she is no longer in pain physically or mentally and has been reunited with her Husband Lov you all
Love ❤️ Susan
Sonya, Darlene, Val, Joey and David, you have my deepest sympathy on the passing of your mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our condolences to all of Aunt Josephine’s family. I can remember hearing her firm but fun-loving voice and wonderful laugh .May you carry many fond memories of her with you always.
Rod (and Carol) Sebastian
Valerie and family, I am sort to hear of your mother’s passing. Growing up I spent many hours in her home. She always made me feel so welcome. My heart is with all of you.
Big warm hugs from Texas….so glad to have been able to see her this summer. My fondest memories were the calls made to her on her birthday each leap year and joking about how she was staying so young and the rest of us were getting old. Her wonderful sense of humor and love for family will be cherished. We will be thinking of you all as you celebrate her life.
Sonja, Darlene, Valerie, Joey, David and families, I am so incredibly sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. I know words can’t fully ease what you’re feeling at this difficult moment. There is nothing more painful than the loss of one’s Mom!!!
Please know we’re thinking of you all and keeping you in our thoughts.
Sincere heartfelt condolences,
Celeste Sali, with Sid & Shari, Daniel & Kim
Rest in peace Josie — and thank you for the gift of your friendship of over 50 years to our beloved mom, Mae.
Sincere condolences to the entire Kovatch family, on behalf of Earl, Randy, Clayton, Scott & Tammie.
Your parents will always remain in our hearts and memories.