David William Kovach

Dave was born on March 25th 1947 in Binghamton, New York to Bill and Rose Kovach. Dave grew up in Binghamton, and after graduating from Binghamton Central High School went into the United States Army where he served his country in Vietnam.

After leaving the service, Dave began a career as a professional musician drumming in bands and touring across the country. Dave described himself as a good “feel” drummer, and understood what was best for the song. One of Dave’s favorite songs to play live was “Wipeout” by the Surfaris. After leaving the music business, Dave began a career in sales which he enjoyed for the next 30 years.

In 1992, Dave met his future wife Kathy and her son Joe and daughter Tara. They were married several years later, and Dave raised his family in Camarillo, California. After Dave retired, he re-dedicated himself to his lifelong passion of bowling! He loved bowling in leagues, tournaments, or substituting for other bowlers. Dave’s second home was the Bowlium Lanes in Montclair, California. If Dave wasn’t bowling, he could be found laughing and joking with the other patrons or employees. Dave later became a coach for many of the bowlers at Bowlium, and enjoyed teaching the game to all ages. Known for his simple but consistent approach, Dave could hold his own against most of the players he bowled against.

Dave leaves behind his son Joe Sharif, daughter Tara Sharif, uncle Paul and aunt Teresa Krcha, cousin Toni Krcha-Garner, and dear friends Scott and Teresa Poddig , Roger Jewell, and Debbie Garcia. Along with numerous other family, friends, and teammates.

Aside from bowling, Dave loved music (80s hair metal), the New York Yankees, his cats, his Camaro, Rocky movies, card games, and telling stories.

Dave is preceded in death by his wife, parents, Aunt Joyce Gilroy, and cousin David Gilroy.

Dave was an honest, caring, and patient man. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, and a loyal friend. The world was a better place for having him in it, and will not be the same for those lucky enough to have known him.

“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” -Thomas Campbell