Richard (Ernie) Kovacs

Surrounded by his family, Richard (Ernie) Kovacs passed on September 28, 2022. Ernie leaves behind his loving wife, Carolyn of 58 years, his boys—Richard Kovacs II, Chris Kovacs, and Mike Kovacs, his sister Marlene, and grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Ernie lived a full, active, adventurous life. He was born July 10, 1945 in New Orleans, LA, to George Sr. and Ernestine Kovacs (Herzog). Ernie, known as Richie to his siblings was one of six children—George Jr, Richard, Linda, Gladys, Marilyn, and Marlene. As a child, he loved sports (football and pole vaulting being his favorites), fishing, crawdad hunting, and anything else that would let him get outside. After graduating high school, Ernie enlisted in the U.S. Navy. While stationed in Phoenix, AZ he met his soon to be wife. Together they embarked on a journey of love, fun, and adventure. Between raising 3 rambunctious boys, competing in semi-pro football, traveling the bronc-rider circuits in Arizona, and traveling between Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado for work they built a life together. Finally, they settled down in Bloomfield, NM in 1977.

In later years, when Ernie wasn’t laying concrete, fishing, hunting, or watching the Saints or LSU football games, Ernie could be found on the football field coaching with his son’s. From 1992 to 2020, Ernie (better known as Pops on the field) spent almost every football season coaching the youth of San Juan County.

Anyone that knew Ernie knew he was a dedicated, hardworking, loyal, and somewhat stubborn man (who occasionally might throw a quick joke with a quizzical brow just for laughs). To his family, Pops was the ring-leader, jokester, wrestling and fishing champ, and nickname master. Ernie traveled through life fully present while always maintaining a level of comedic satire. He was stubborn in his beliefs, held himself to high standards, and was loyal to the end. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A small, private funeral will be held Brewer Lee & Larkin Funeral Home.

Prayer to St. Christopher

“… The beauty of the world; that thus I may with joy and courtesy go on my way. St. Christopher, holy patron of travelers, protect me, and lead me safely to my destiny.”