Monte Kovash, 61, Dickinson, died Wednesday, May 28, 2014 surrounded by his family at his home following a courageous battle with cancer. Monte’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 31, 2014 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dickinson, with Fr. Russ Kovash as the celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery, Dickinson. Visitation will be on Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ladbury Funeral Service, and will continue at the church from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a rosary & vigil at 7 p.m.
Monte Ray Kovash was born on April 4, 1953, the son of Ray and Blanche (Ficek) Kovash. He was raised on the family farm east of Dickinson. He attended grade school at Versippi School, graduated from Trinity High School in 1971, and also attended DSU. He started work at the ND Highway Department and later worked for Acme Tool. He switched careers and opened Kovash Insurance Agency where he has worked for the past 25 years.
On August 29, 1973, Monte married his high school sweetheart, Diane Ridl at St. Wenceslaus Church. Monte and Diane enjoyed 40 years of marriage and were blessed with three children and six grandchildren. Monte valued his Catholic faith and was an active member of St. Patrick’s Church. He loved spending time with his family, being outdoors, gardening, hunting, fishing, and cooking. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and Minnesota Twins fan. Monte and Diane enjoyed their travels together, especially their trips to Medjugorge, Hawaii, and Lambeau Field; but most of all the many trips to Fargo to visit grandchildren.
Monte is survived by his loving wife, Diane; three children: Jennifer (Jason) Hulstein, Fargo, Vanessa (Brian) Smith, Fargo, and Jesse (Patty) Kovash, Dickinson; six grandchildren: Matthew Hulstein, James Hulstein, Carly Hulstein, Julia Hulstein, Alex Smith and Scarlett Smith; his mother: Blanche Kovash, Dickinson; his brothers: Perry (Sonja) Kovash, Dickinson and Father Russ Kovash, Williston; his sister: Darcy Kovash, Dickinson; and many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Kovash.
Everyone who met Monte could see what a kind and loving person he was. He was a man known for his strong faith and integrity. Monte touched many lives with his gentle nature. His death has left a void that cannot be filled. We will miss our talks, seeing your smile, and having your loving guidance in our lives. Until we meet again…
