James K. Covert

JAMES K. COVERT, age 66, of 1214 Dryden Road, Ithaca went peacefully home to his heavenly father surrounded by his family on Friday Sept. 29, 2006 after a long fight with COPD. "Jimmy" was born in West Danby on June 15th, 1940 to Anna and Kenneth Covert. He remained in Newfield for all his school years until marrying his high school sweetheart, soul mate and love of his life, Barbara A. Vorhis, on April 2, 1960. They settled to 1214 Dryden Road where their children, Brenda and Scott were raised. Jim was employed at NCR for about 20 years before opening his own service station, "Jim’s Texaco", on Meadow St., Ithaca. Fifteen years later he began working at Superior Disposal as the shop supervisor. After illness made it difficult to report to work, he worked from his home until reluctantly retiring in August of 2006 after a lifetime of dedication to his work.

Jim’s family and friends were his life. Once you were a part of his life and entered his heart, you were never set aside or forgotten. His had lifetime relationships with many and no matter what was said or done, a grudge was never held or a relationship lost. Jim loved the NY Yankees and Giants, a love that he passed on to his children and grandchildren. His family’s only regret was that he never got to see his grandsons play football as he had played during high school. We are comforted that he is watching them now.

Jim is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara A. Covert, who lovingly cared for him in his illness so his life could be full. Also surviving are his daughter, Brenda (Butch) Shoemaker of Trumansburg, his son, Scott (Cathy) Covert of Ithaca; grandchildren, Steven and Greg Covert, Christopher and Chadd Shoemaker; his sister, Elinor Peaslee in Oregon, brothers and sisters in law; nieces; nephews and cousins.

Memorial services will be held at 2 PM Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2006 at the Perkins Funeral Home, 55 West Main St., Dryden. Burial will follow in East Lawn Cemetery, Ithaca. Jim was able to make every decision until his passing therefore to respect his wishes there will be no calling hours. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, are graciously directed to the Cayuga Medical Center Foundation, 101 Dates Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850.