Joseph J. Kovatch Sr., 83, of Nesquehoning, loving husband, father and grandfather passed away on March 28, 2017 in Lehighton.  He was preceded in death by wife, Florence (Lack) Kovatch and daughter Marie D. Kovatch.   Born in Nesquehoning, he was a son of the late John J. Kovatch Sr., the founder of the Kovatch Business and Anna (Yacapsin) Kovatch.

Joe was the "other half" of the Kovatch Brothers that were responsible for the success of the Kovatch Corporation and KME.  Joe and his brother "Sonny" were partners in many businesses, including Kovatch Buick-Oldsmobile, Kovatch Enterprises and Hauto Valley Estates Inc.   Joe was a trained mechanic and also branched out to own and manage other businesses, including, Quality Auto Parts Inc., Kovatch Realty Co., Kovatch Properties and K Chevrolet-Cadillac/Kovatch Sales and Service.  He was active in many civic associations, including the Nesquehoning Lions, a Board Member of the Lehigh Valley AAA, and was a Past President of the Lehighton Chamber of Commerce.  Joe loved this area and donated and helped with many organizations in the local communities.

He is survived by his Daughter, Nancy Kovatch-Patton and husband Garry Patton, and their children Alyssa Watkins, Eric Ramos, Ashley Watkins, and Eric Patton and wife Lauren, son Joseph J. Kovatch Jr. and wife Angela (Perla) Kovatch and their daughters Courtney and Caitlyn Kovatch, sisters Helen Homcha, Agnes Barachie , Ann Hanawalt and many wonderful nieces, nephews and extended family.  He pre-deceased by a brother John J. "Sonny" and sisters Mary Tokay and Margaret Blisard.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, April 2nd at 6:00 p.m. from the Bruce A. Nalesnik Funeral Home, 57 West Center St., Nesquehoning PA 18240, with the Rev. James Burdess Officiating.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home.  Interment will be private.  Contributions may be made to Marian Catholic High School c/o the Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.nalesnikfh.com.  Services and arrangements are being provided by the Bruce A. Nalesnik Funeral Home, 57 West Center St., Nesquehoning PA  18240