James William Kowcheck
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James William Kowcheck, 86, of Avella, passed away peacefully Thursday, January 25, 2018. His final wish was to remain in his home, surrounded by the love of his family and friends he had touched throughout his life, until his passing.
He was born March 18, 1931, in Avella, a son of the late Peter and Nellie Sankey Kowcheck.
Mr. Kowcheck was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War, and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal of Honor.
He was employed by Weirton Steel in Weirton, W.Va., for the majority of his life on the blast furnace.
Mr. Kowcheck was a lifelong resident of Avella, a member of St. Michael Roman Catholic Church and American Legion Bert C. Siders Post 643 in Avella.
He loved spending daily time during his retired years visiting with his siblings, especially his brother, Hugh. He had a passion for hunting, cooking wild game, gardening and being outdoors. He devoted much of his time and energy to his garden, producing prized tomatoes, and shared all with family and friends.
Mr. Kowcheck will always be remembered for his very loving and generous heart.
On October 20, 1956, he married the love of his life, Julia Kertesz, who survives.
Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Julia; along with their children, daughters Denise (Greg) Hughes of San Carlos, Calif., and Debbie (Drew) Bentz of Avella, son James (Raeanne) Kowcheck of Vernon, Ky., and Louis Kertesz of Indio, Calif.; three grandchildren, William Halcomb and Gabe and Andrew Kowcheck; three sisters, Mercedes Vaira of La Plata, Md., and Mary (Jim) Chase and Bernita (Richard) Defibaugh, both of Avella; three brothers, David (Rose) Kowcheck, John (Anna) Kowcheck and Paul (Diane) Kowcheck, all of Avella; and several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by a sister, Loretta Loftis, and four brothers, Thomas, Regis, Edward and Hugh Kowcheck.
To honor the deceased’s wishes, a viewing will not be held.
If so desired, memorial contributions can be made in his memory to American Legion Bert C. Siders Post 643, 30 Short Street, Avella, PA 15312, or Avella Food Pantry, c/o Avella Presbyterian Church, 25 Campbell Street, Avella, PA 15312.
Condolences may be expressed at www.stefkovichfuneralhome.com.