Recent Obituaries

Anges L. (McDowell) Kovanen passed away peacefully on July 7, 2022 at the age of 93 in Point Roberts, Washington. Known as "Kay," she was born September 16, 1928 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. She grew up on a farm in Blackberry, Minnesota with her parents Leona (Wilhelm) and John McDowell, her brothers, Vernon (Mary), Robert (Barbara), and James, and her sisters Erma Fox (Tom) and Jean Nelson (Donald).

In 1955 she married Archie E. Kovanen who preceded her in death in 2013. They had four children: David (Aya), Doris, Debra Wilkowski (Hugh Wilson), and Danny (Megan), and 5 grandchildren, Izaac, Benjamin, and Grace Wilkowski, Jack and Emerson Kovanen. They all enriched her life as she watched them grow and Kay (and Archie) made sure that all knew of their loving support that has helped them achieve their highest potential. The legacy of Kay's kind spirit and zest for life will live on through them.

Kay was a devoted wife and dedicated mother. During Archie's distinguished business career, they moved many times, spending time in Hoyt Lakes and Duluth, Minnesota; Los Angeles, California; Portland, Oregon; Tacoma, Washington; Juneau, Alaska; and Kent and Bellingham, Washington. Kay's bright smile, quick wit, kindness and generosity helped her make friends wherever she went. Her family and friends valued her love, support, encouragement and enduring interest in their lives.

Kay lived an exemplary life; she dedicated her time to her family and serving others. Her generosity to others is too widespread to encapsulate properly. She cared deeply about supporting and encouraging her husband's and her children's activities, as well as those of their friends. Over the years she volunteered at the Washington State Historical Museum, taught literacy and English as a second language with Laubach, served as a food advisor for the Washington State University Extension Program, organized a Homemaker Club in Tacoma, Washington, and assisted with retail sales for the Children’s Orthopedic Hospital Thrift Store in Kent, Washington. She also studied tailoring, cooking, and was a licensed massage therapist.

Kay was a resident of Point Roberts, Washington for nearly 6 years. She relished the natural beauty, peaceful setting, and being close to her daughters. Kay's family is deeply appreciative of the team of caregivers who gave her such wonderful support and devotion.

Kay was loved and adored by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, countless cousins and friends for her love, kindness and giving heart. A memorial service for Kay will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery at 1:15pm on August 11th, where she will be reunited with her beloved husband Archie.