Emil R. Dovan, 94

November 23, 2018

Emil R. Dovan, 94, of Willow Street, PA, formerly of South Plainfield NJ, died Nov. 23, 2018 at Willow Valley Community. Born in Freeland, PA, he was the son of the late Andrej and Veronika (Liska) Dovan (Gdovin). Emil and his devoted wife Grace (Kidd) celebrated 72 years of marriage in March.

Emil honorably served our country in the Army Air Corps 1943-1946, and was stationed in the Philippines. He retired after 44 years from American Cyanamid, Bound Brook, NJ as an Instrument Mechanic. Emil had the heart of a servant, spending years in helping others at Hydewood Park Baptist Church, N. Plainfield, at Oakley Kimble Gospel Tape Ministry, and at various nursing homes.

He loved Phillies baseball and even a few years ago could be found pitching ball with his great grandsons. Emil enjoyed traveling with his wife around the country in their RV and sightseeing overseas. In his younger years Emil often took his family on adventurous camping trips. He also was an avid bowler throughout his life, well into his early 90’s.

Emil is survived by his sweetheart, Grace, daughter Marjory Gregory (Todd) of Mertztown PA, son Emil “Buzz” Dovan (Jane) of Greensboro NC; grandchildren Corinne Crist (Bryan), Nancy Lefavour (Jon), Andy Dovan (MaryLou), Ian Dovan (Hannah); great grandchildren Caleb, Joseph, and Jenna Crist, and Allyson Lefavour; sisters Liz Dubick and Millie Kochie, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers John, Andrew, Albert, and Eddie; sisters Mary Sarosky, Gisella Ketchmarik, and Dorothy Hunsinger.

After a private graveside service, Emil’s family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2:30 PM and then a memorial service will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in the Willow Valley Lakes Manor Thomas Auditorium, 300 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584.