Thomas Kovach passed away suddenly on June 30, 2025. Born in 1954 to the late William and Evelyn Kovach, Tom lived a life full of music, service, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Tom's love for music began when he started playing the saxophone at the age of 8 years old. By the age of 10, he was playing professionally with "The Timekeepers" and continued to play with them for 18 years.

After graduating from Elyria High School in 1972, Tom proudly served in the United Stated Navy as a member of the Navy band for 4 years.

He married the love of his life, Patti, in 1977 and together they built a family rooted in love and laughter.

Tom, better known as Shmenge to his fellow firefighters, he dedicated himself to serving the community at the Elyria Fire Department until his retirement. Tom was also an active member several organizations throughout his life.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Patti, his daughters Katie Balog (Chris) and Audrey Kovach, his granddaughter Alli Balog, sisters Sandy Nagy and Jeanne Kovach, sisters-in-law Terri Knapp and Wanda Kovach, nephew Brian Nagy (Meghan), niece Lisa Johnson (Jeremy), and great nephews, Elek and Adler Nagy, Cole and Cameron Johnson. He will also be greatly missed by his four legged buddy Wilbur.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bob Kovach, and grandson, Brayden Kovach.

Tom will be remembered for his love of golfing, poker, camping and spending time with family and friends. His sense of humor, generosity, and kind spirit will be missed by all that knew him.

Please join us to celebrate Tom on Sunday July 13th between 4 -7 pm at Smitty's in Elyria. Come have a bite to eat and raise your glass to toast a life well lived.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com