Rolland Kovaleski
March 16, 1949 - July 02, 2020
Obituary
KOVALESKI, Rolland "Sonny" Saginaw, Michigan Our beloved husband, father, brother and dear friend passed away Thursday, July 2, 2020 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was 71 years old. Rolland "Sonny" Kovaleski was born on March 16, 1949 to the late Rolland "Rollie" and Dorothy Kovaleski in Petoskey, Michigan. Sonny attended Saginaw High School graduating in 1967. He attended college in Lexington, Kentucky and became a huge University of Kentucky fan. Following college, he returned to Saginaw and worked for General Motors for 34 years, retiring in 2005. He married Sandra "Sandy" Duso on February 15, 1990. She survives him. Sonny loved to spend his summers and retirement in Petoskey at his cottage on Crooked Lake. He loved animals, watching sports, spending time with his family and friends. Sonny is survived by his wife, Sandra "Sandy" Kovaleski; son, Andrew Duso; daughter, Nicole (Ken) Mero; grandchildren: Emilee Duso, Hayden Duso and Gabriella Batcke; half-brother, Michael Kovaleski; sister-in-law, Cathy Duso; brother-in-law, John Duso; and his furry companions: Teddy and Cali. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dean John "DJ" Kovaleski; his infant sister; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Geri and John Duso. SERVICE: A memorial service for Sonny will take place at 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2020 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Pastoral Associate, Sharon Wahl will officiate. Cremation has taken place and Sonny's cremated remains will be buried with his son, DJ Kovaleski, in St. Andrew Cemetery. VISITATION: Family and friends are welcome to visit at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Humane Society of the United States, 2100 L. Street N.W., Washington, DC, 20037 or Charity of Choice. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, or online at www.DeislerFuneralHome.com.
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Memories
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Terrence Davey
Other •
Sonny and I knew each other I believe since we were about 10 years old. We lived in the same neighborhood and eventually we began peddling our Saginaw News paper routes together. We have been lifelong friends. These last few years have been tough on him but we managed to take a few road trips to cross a few things off his "bucket" list. I'm so glad we did that. I'll miss him. A lot.
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Anonymous
Other •
Springtime Wishes was purchased for the family of Rolland "Sonny" Kovaleski.
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Barb Glowacki Cleeves
Other •
Sonny coached our girls softball team for All Sports Tavern for many years. He was a great guy & I have so many memories of him:blush: from canoe trips to partying after our games. R.I.P. Sonny
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Claudia Smits Lehr
Other •
First met Sonny when I was in 5th grade. My dad was his basketball coach along with my brother, Dean. They've remained lifelong friends and I was always the little sister. First impression?? That smile!! I will remember most his smile and how he always made me laugh. So grateful I had the opportunity to visit with you recently. As sick as you were you had that smile and made me laugh! You were loved Sonny. RIP now with DJ :pray:
KV
Karen Vasquez
Other •
We have known Sonny for many years
David (my husband) worked with Sonny & coached softball together & partied together for many years! I would have to make sure they both got home safe many times !
After years of raising families apart we Reconnected at the UAW retirement meets and talked & talked about old times!
KV
Karen Vasquez
Other •
We have known Sonny for many years
My husband David worked with him and coached softball with him, Won more games then we can count & State champs One year
Reconnect after raising families at the UAW retirement meetings
Rip Sonny
Prayers & condolences to his wife Sandy & kids