John D. "Jack" Hovanec

Of Wilkins Twp., age 78, died on Monday, April 13, 2026.

Jack was born on April 24, 1947 in Braddock, the son of the late John G. and Justine (Sepesy) Hovanec.

Jack was the beloved husband of Carol (Weyant) Hovanec for 27 years.

He was the caring father of John D. “Jay” (Natalie) Hovanec of Seattle and Josh (Felirose deLuna) Hovanec of Wilkins Twp.

He was the proud grandfather of John J. ‘JJ’ Hovanec and Matthew Hovanec.

Jack is also survived by his brother, Thomas (late Joyce) Hovanec of White Oak, and Tom’s sons, Gavin (Siohban) Hovanec and Neil (Samantha) Hovanec.

Jack was raised in Braddock and was a 1965 graduate of St. Thomas High School in Braddock. He then matriculated at the University of Pittsburgh, graduating in 1969 with a Bachelors Degree. Jack was drafted into the U.S. Army not soon after his Pitt graduation, and served in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Upon his discharge, Jack re-enrolled at Pitt and achieved his Master’s degree.                      

In the long and faithful course of his professional life, Jack served as a software developer, lending his mind and skill to various entities throughout his technology career.  He was employed with Allegheny County Computer Services for 2 years; PPG for 2 years; Joy Manufacturing for 4 years; and finally, Westinghouse for 14 years, retiring in 1999. He also was an adjunct math professor for Allegheny County Community College from 1989 – 2017.

Jack was an ardent sports fan. He enjoyed playing basketball and volleyball until he became too old to compete. From 1977-2018, Jack was a Pittsburgh Steeler season ticket holder. Beyond the stadium, sporting courts and the classroom, Jack found great pleasure in a good game of poker with his long-term friends. There, in fellowship and friendly contest, he enjoyed the company of those who knew him well and cherished his wit, his steadiness, and his keen mind. These gatherings were marked not only by cards and strategy, but by laughter, companionship, and the enduring bonds of friendship.

Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, April 25 from 1-2pm at the Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, PA 15145, (412) 823-9350 where a Memorial Blessing Service will be held at 2 pm., followed by a Presentation of Military Honors.

Jack will be laid to rest in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at a later date.

Following Jack’s Memorial Blessing Service on Saturday, a luncheon will be held at Luciano’s in White Oak. For planning purposes, anyone interested in attending the luncheon, please email hovanecfuneral@outlook.com so that there can be an accurate count.

In lieu of flowers, Jack’s family request that any memorial donations be sent to the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, 5150 Centre Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15232. 412-623-4700 or www.hillman.upmc.com; or Bridges Hospice, 4130 Monroeville Blvd., Monroeville, PA 15146 or www.brideshospice.org.