David Donald Kovarik

David Donald Kovarik, 88, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the St. Luke’s Transitional Care Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. David donated his body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program. He will be buried at a later date at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Cedar Rapids.

David was born on May 6, 1937, in Vining, Iowa, the son of Adolf and Helen (Behonek) Kovarik. He graduated from Toledo High School and went on to serve in the United States Army. On September 9, 1961, David was united in marriage to Sandra Lee Oftt in Van Horne, Iowa. Three children were born to this union. David had a long career at Rockwell Collins, where he served with distinction as a building maintenance man, until his retirement in 1992. He also worked part time for Sears, for 20 years.

A devoted fan of Iowa Hawkeye football, he delighted in cheering for his team with unwavering enthusiasm. He enjoyed camping and fishing. David found joy in the tranquility of the outdoors, often seeking solace in the beauty of nature and the thrill of reeling in a great catch. As a snowbird, David created a beautiful tradition of traveling south during the winter months, creating a lifetime of precious memories. He was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion. David will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

David is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Sandra Kovarik; two sons, Scott (Theresa) Kovarik of Cedar Rapids, and Douglas Kovarik of Cascade, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kym Kovarik; brother, Frank Kovarik; and two sisters, Betty Ward and Adeline Kovarik.