Sandra Lee Kovatch, 82, of Lucas, left this world to be in the arms of her Savior on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 9:30 p.m.
She was born on January 31, 1942, in Rosedale, West Virginia to Gilbert and Irene Wright.
Sandy (also known as Mom, Gammy, and GiGi) made it her mission to set an example of living like Jesus. She wanted all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to accept Christ as their Savior and to have a personal relationship with Him. Sandy’s greatest joy was to spend time with her children and grandchildren. She loved having fun, whether she was riding the fastest roller coaster or staying up half of the night playing games. Sandy made certain that everyone knew how to play Euchre, and she competed fiercely to win.
She was a lifelong member of Mansfield Baptist Temple and served there as church secretary for many years. Sandy also served and volunteered her time in countless ways including singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, preparing meals for those in need, and opening her home to host missionaries. She was a living example of Proverbs 31:28: “Her children arise up and call her blessed,” as did everyone she knew.
Sandy battled cancer for the last fourteen years of her life. Through the ups and downs, she continued to fight with optimism and grace. She fought bravely with a smile on her face, because she knew heaven awaited her. Her deep and abiding faith gave her peace and comfort, especially during her final years. She will be deeply missed, and so will her sugar cookies.
She is survived by four children, Doug (Cindy) Niznik, Lori (Randy) Wood, John Niznik, and Jeff (Heather) Zaika; eleven grandchildren, Robert, Amanda (Greg), Mike, Caitlynd (Kyle), Randi Lyndsey (Bobby), Cassie (Rich), Ryan (Lauren), Jackie, Colt (Cydnee), Gabby, and Jillian; twelve great-grandchildren, Zain, Donovan, Adalyn, Aiden, Selah, Barrett, Milo, Bobbi Lynn, Charlee Kate, Nash, Sadie Rae, and Ridge; bonus family members, Bo (Tammy), Margaret, and Jackie; one brother, Bob (Cathy) Wright; two sisters-in-law, Ruth Ann Wright and Ruthie Wright; best friend, Barb; and lifelong friend, Vonda, who walked beside her through all the ups and downs of life for seventy years.
Sandy was preceded in death by her husbands, Joseph Zaika and James Kovatch; her parents, Gilbert and Irene Wright; and three brothers, Jerry (Mary), Darrell, and Glen.
Calling hours will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, ltd., 1106 Park Avenue East, Mansfield. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at the funeral home with Pastor Robert J. Kurtz and Dr. Dale Adkins officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Memorial Park.
Online condolences may be made at www.wernergompf.com
Funeral Home: Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, ltd.
Website: www.wernergompf.com