Saratoga Springs, NY John J. Kovarik of Steeplechase Blvd., Malta, died Sunday, Sept. 7, 2008 at Maplewood Manor surrounded by his family. He was 81. Born in Manhattan on January 28, 1927, he was the son of the late John and Emily (Matousek) Kovarik. John married his sweetheart Elza in 1952, moving to Saratoga Springs in 1954. He worked for over 50 years at ESPEY Manufacturing, retiring as Production Quality Supervisor in 1997. John was active in Civil Air Patrol and the Elks club and enjoyed gymnastics, opera, cooking, electronics and watching John Wayne movies. Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Elza Kovarik; his daughters, Melanie (Bob) Damon, Jody (Joe) Dunbar, and Cynthia (Ron) Goodden; his sister, Vera (Cliff) Sanborn; six grandchildren, Whitney, Lindsey, Madison, Brian, Maureen, and Christopher; four great-grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews. John, affectionately known as "Jerry," will be remembered for his generosity toward his family, whom he loved unconditionally. There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008, at St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Ave. The Rev. Neil Draves-Arpaia will officiate. Many thanks to the wonderful staff at Saratoga Hospital, Maplewood Manor and Hospice. Donations may be made in John's memory to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (www.communityhospice.org) or to Maplewood Manor Resident Fund (Third Floor), 149 Ballston Ave., Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes of 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (584-5373).