Obituary of Barbara Elizabeth Kovich

Barbara "Barb" Young Kovich

November 9, 1939 - May 14, 2025

Barbara (Barb) Young Kovich, 85, Cherished Matriarch and Community Pillar

Barbara “Barb” (Young) Kovich, affectionately known as “Aunt Barb” to scores of youngsters and adults, passed away peacefully with her daughter, PCAs, and puppy at her side, at the age of 85 on May 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and boundless generosity.

A devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend, Barb embodied compassion in action. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Janet Marie (and grand-puppy William); chosen son, Andrew John (Andy) – Carol Ann; sister, Magdalen Cochrane; sister-in-law, Marie Wanchick; and a close circle of nieces and nephews who lovingly supported her in recent years, especially Edie, Dina, Danny, and Fiddler, who were a constant source of love, special meals, communion, and support on a weekly basis. 

She was predeceased by her husband, John; infant son, John Alan; a tiny baby; her parents, John Edward and Nancy (Blanchard) Young; and a large, beloved extended family whom she now joins in eternal rest. Including, brothers Ivan, Theodore, Fintan and Douglas, sisters Loretta, Marie, Emma, Isabelle, Janet, and Amelia, many brothers and sisters in-law, and such a crowd of family members and friends, that we know she received a joyous reception into heaven.

Barb's life was one of tireless service — caring for her brother Dougie for over three decades, lovingly baking cakes for the community after long shifts at the Golden Eagle, and comforting grieving families through her work with the St. Joseph’s Church bereavement committee. Whether at Bell Telephone at the Harmon Air Force Base, Berglund Ford, the Cherry Hill Inn/Lodge, or the Irving and Golden Eagle Restaurants, she brought warmth and excellence to all she did.

Her kitchen was a sanctuary for those in need, and a resource centre for school projects, her faith was a guiding force. Introduced to the Catholic Charismatic community by her sister Mag in 1983, Barb deepened her walk with Christ and found fellowship that sustained her for decades. Her unwavering kindness, joyful resilience, and deep spirituality touched all who knew her. She leaves behind many loving friends in faith. 

A debt of gratitude is owed to the staff of the BSG LTC including the PCAs, nurses, social workers, doctors, and administrators, who so lovingly cared for our mother over the past four years. An exceptional level of care of both Barb, Janet and family in Barb’s final days was above and beyond, and we are grateful for you. 

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19th from 2-4 and 7-9pm from St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, St. George's followed by A celebration of Barb’s life on Tuesday May 20th at 10:00am with interment to follow at the church cemetery in Shallop Cove. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph’s Church Memorial Fund. Funeral arrangements have are entrusted to Fillatre’s Funeral Home, Stephenville Crossing.

Rest in peace, Aunt Barb. Your light will never dim.