Richard G. Cocovich

July 7, 2017 Mr. Richard G. Cocovich, 71, of Rockport Way Pacolet, SC died Monday, July 3, 2017 in Spartanburg Medical Center. Rich was born on Oct. 28, 1945 in Iselin, Pa., the son of Mario R. Cocovich and Helen (Sobieray) Cocovich. He married Andrea Catania Cocovich on Sept. 2, 1967. They were residents of Indiana, Pa. for 31 years prior to relocating to Union Co., SC in 1998. Rich graduated from Elders Ridge High School in 1963 where he was an exceptional athlete. He excelled as a baseball player and was a team member of the West Lebanon and Creekside baseball teams. Rich was a coach for Delaney Chevrolet Little League Team and for the Indiana Senior Legion team. He was an avid Pittsburgh Pirate and Pittsburgh Steeler fan. Rich worked in the banking industry for 25 years and at Diamond Medical Supply in Indiana, Pa. for 10- years before retirement. He was a 25- year member of the Elks in Indiana, Pa. Rich was an expert accordionist and was well-known in Pennsylvania for this talent and ability. He was proud to be a member of several polka bands and was a perfect fit with his light-hearted spirit and good-naturedness. Rich will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by Andrea, his beloved wife of 49 years, his son Richard M. Cocovich (Beth) of Hilton Head, SC, and daughter Michol Cocovich (Steve Anderson and Sasha and Erik Anderson) of Cranberry Twp., Pa., and his grandson and best friend Alessandro Cocovich. He is also survived by his father-in-law Charles C.Catania, sister-in-law Michol Catania, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Charla and Paul Rots, nieces and nephew Debi (Joe) Nagy, goddaughter Caren (Rick) Falascino, Jennifer Demor, and Greg (Lori) Lezanic, several great nieces and nephews, one great-great nephew, goddaughter Lisa Burkett, and numerous cousins and friends in many states. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law Darlene and Charles Lezanic, mother-in-law Jean Verona Catania, brother-in-law Charles S. Catania and nephew and godson PJ Rots. The family will be holding private services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Union County Meals on Wheels, P.O.Box 951, Union, SC 29379.