Gary Kovalenko, 75, formerly of Libby

Gary Allen Kovalenko, 75, passed away with his wife and sons by his side after his long battle with lung disease on April 9, 2012.

He was born Feb. 18, 1937, in Fargo, N.D. Gary grew up on a farm near Max, N.D. 

Since then he has lived in Minot, Libby, and most recently in Pasco Wash.

On June 16, 1962 he married the love of his life, Marva Lou Reich. They had three beautiful children who he loved more than anything. 

He loved his family and valued spending time with them. He had a passion for gardening and yard work and always liked to have help with working in the garden and harvesting the fruits of his labor.

Music was a big part of his life. He enjoyed playing his guitars, and harmonicas. He was a member of the Northwest Accordion Association when he lived in Montana. 

He worked at several occupations during his lifetime such as working on the railroad, driving a taxi, and helping the U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers clear the reservoir for the Libby Dam. He also worked in a lumber mill and drove a school bus for the Libby School district. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Alex and Sadie Kovalenko and his daughter Kathleen Jane Kovalenko.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years Marva Kovalenko, son Charlie Kovalenko, daughter-in-law Tammie, son Philip Kovalenko, daughter-in-law Jocelyn, and grandchildren Parker and Riley.