Outpouring for Pete was overwhelming

Last month, our family lost a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and brother. Last month, the community of Elgin lost a legend in Richard "Pete" Kovacs.

The outpouring of support has come from near and far. We, his family, thank everyone who has helped us through this devastating ordeal. We appreciate the sincere kindness that so many have offered us.

He received excellent care in renal oncology at Sherman Hospital. Special thanks to nurses Staci, Jolanta, Marge and Joni and aides Maria, Camille and Heather. Thanks to Gayle, the unit secretary, Dr. V. Patel and Dr. N.J. Ahmad. Thanks to all the people who had Pete in their prayers or sent flowers, cards and well wishes to him while he was in the hospital.

That Pete touched many lives was apparent at both his visitation and memorial service. Thanks to all who waited in line to pay their respects and offer condolences to MaryAnn and her family. What a wonderful testament to a life well lived.

Thanks to Pastor Elliott Anderson and Elgin Evangelical Free Church for taking such good care of us. And to Laird Funeral Home. Also, thanks for the generous donations in Pete's name that the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Foundation has received.

Thanks to the hundreds of people that came out to honor Pete. From grade school classmates to high school friends, teammates, co-workers, former neighbors and new friends at Edgewater. A special thank you to John Radtke of the Daily Herald and R.J. Gerber of the Courier News for their wonderful articles they published.

Pete had a special way of making someone feel as if they were the most important person around. He was always there to give advice or offer help. Whether it was basketball, poker, craps, life, love, or which bus to get onto- Pete was your go-to guy. Even in death, he continued to give by being an organ donor. Register at www.lifegoeson.com and complete the back of your driver's license.

The Richard "Pete" Kovacs family

Elgin