Kevin P. Covell

He was born on Sept. 11, 1960, to the late Paul and Virgie Covell of Sugar Grove, PA. From a young age, Kevin had a gift for fixing and tinkering with anything he could get his hands on–a passion that earned him the nickname “Tink.” He carried that skill throughout his life and passed it on to his grandson Jordan, lovingly called “Tink Jr.”

In 1984, Kevin married the love of his life, Valerie. Together they shared over 40 years of love, laughter, and family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father to Cathy (Andy) Melice, and a cherished papa to Alyssa (Aaron) Marketich, Jordan Melice (Jasmine Markham), Aubriella, Hudson, and Brexlyn. His family was his greatest joy, and he fought bravely to spend as much time with them as possible.

Kevin had a lifelong love of cars and racing. He spent many years racing challengers at Stateline Speedway, where he was happiest behind the wheel or in the stands cheering. At home, he was always tinkering in the garage–most recently working on his dream car, which he was able to drive once before his illness progressed. He loved snowmobiling, four-wheeling, pulling his grandkids on sleds, and taking them on adventures. He will be fondly remembered for his playful pranks (like turning a “Hershey donut” into a “hurt ya, don’t it”), his rides in the black Mustang, teaching the kids to drive in a field car, and taking them spotting in the fields–always reminding Alyssa to slow down so the deer didn’t run off. Beneath his stubborn spirit was a heart full of love and devotion to his family.

Kevin also had a deep bond with his dogs. His faithful companion, Digger, rarely left his side, and he carried the memory of his beloved Gunner, who passed more than five years ago, close to his heart.

Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Valerie; daughter, Cathy (Andy) Melice; grandchildren, Alyssa (Aaron) Marketich, Jordan Melice (Jasmine Markham), Aubriella, Hudson, and Brexlyn; siblings, Paula Lyon and Sharon Tompkins; uncle, Andy Confer; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Virgie Covell and sisters, Ruthanne Norris and Cindy Covell.

A memorial service to celebrate Kevin’s life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Sugar Grove Free Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his wife, Valerie Covell, to help with final expenses.

Kevin will forever be remembered for his hardworking hands, his racing spirit, his loyal four-legged friends, and, most of all, his deep love for family. His legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and lessons he leaves behind.

Condolences to the family may be made at nelsonfuneralhome.net.