Long-time Vindy sports writer dies

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Longtime Vindicator sports writer John Kovach, 69, of Youngstown has died. Funeral arrangements are pending.

In a 39-year career, John covered a multitude of sports, ranging from high school sports to Phantoms and SteelHounds hockey to college athletics.

For years, John wrote a weekly column profiling college athletes from the area.

“John showed tremendous resilience in the last several months with his family issues, including his son’s death,” said Vindicator Editor Todd Franko. “Coming to work every day, I could count on John to have one of the louder and more upbeat greetings, day in and day out.”

Vindicator Sports Editor Rob Todor noted: “John’s vast knowledge of the history of area high school sports was unsurpassed. He could recall a player or team, even a game, from years ago, at a moment’s notice. Beyond that, he was a good friend and co-worker who would never hesitate to do whatever was necessary to make the sports section better.”