Lawrence Kovarik

Lawrence C. Kovarik, 77, Grand Forks, ND, died Wednesday, January 1, 2020 at Valley Senior Living Center in Grand Forks.

Lawrence was born June 18, 1942 in Grafton, ND, the son of Charley and Lydia (Waith) Kovarik. He was raised on a farm in Latona Township, ND. Growing up, he worked on the family farm and the farm of his aunt and uncle, Marion and Freddie Berdal near Petersburg, ND. Lawrence went to college and then worked in autobody shops in Grafton and Minot before moving to Grand Forks. He started working in the Petroleum business in the sixties. In 1984 Lawrence and Steve Sulland started Valley Petroleum Equipment which they owned and operated until the time of his retirement. 

Lawrence married Darlene Pich on April 8, 1964 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Grand Forks. She passed away on February 10, 2017.

Lawrence loved to work, hunt, fish, and spend time by the pool with his family and friends. The most important thing in his life was his family. He loved spending time with his children and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. You could always hear Lawrence telling the stories of his family’s achievements as nothing made him more proud. Lawrence liked to relax by listening to polka and country music in the boat or car when cruising around. He will always be remembered for his positive encouragement, happy demeanor, quick wit, and hard work. 

Survivors include his children, Shelly (Jerry) Yohe, Cave Creek, AZ, Sheri (Eric) Anderson, Grand Forks, and Jared Kovarik, South St. Paul, MN; grandchildren, Mitchell Anderson, Matthew Anderson, Ryan Yohe, Carter Kovarik and Ava Kovarik; siblings, Dennis (Marlene) Kovarik, Lankin, ND, Kathy (Jim) Drevecky, Adams, ND, Marge Bina, Grand Forks, Stan Kovarik, Grand Forks and JoAnn Bylin, Adams, ND.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Kim Bylin and Jack Bina.

Funeral Services will be 12:00 PM Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a 7:00 PM Prayer service at Amundson Funeral Home of Grand Forks. Visitation will continue for the hour before the service in the funeral home. Burial will be in Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery, Bechyne, ND in the spring.