Kathryn J. Chovan

Kathryn J. Chovan, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Feb 21, 2026 as a result of a fall at her home. A lifelong resident of Massillon, she was born August 10, 1954 to the late John and Gloria (Ricker) Forgan. She enjoyed 42 years of loving marriage with her husband, Milan E Chovan, Jr., before his passing in 2019. She was a devoted member of Divine Mercy Parish, and her unwavering faith in God guided her life, bringing her strength, comfort, and grace.

To know Kathi was to love her. She loved to laugh, was caring, kind, and deeply compassionate. She made people feel important, always putting others before herself. She lived a life of service and gave her time generously. Caring for others was not just something she did; it was who she was.

She devoted her life to her family—raising her children with love and later serving as a devoted caregiver to her husband and her parents throughout their illnesses. She adored her grandchildren and treasured every moment with them—especially playing board games and attending their extracurricular activities. They were her pride and joy. She was the leader of her siblings, who always looked to her for guidance. She had many close friends who were precious to her, and she valued them deeply.

Kathi loved golf, dancing, decorating, shopping, and any occasion that gave her a reason to get dressed up. She brought light, fun, and elegance wherever she went, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Kathi is survived by her children, Marisa Chovan, Kristi (Todd) Buoni, and Kalli (Doug) Schillinger; grandchildren, Giada Buoni, Branson Buoni, and Graham Schillinger; siblings, Debby (Bruce) Lotter, Rick (Robin) Forgan, Laurie Meyer, and Tom Forgan, along with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Kathi's service will be held at Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, located at 1100 Wales Rd NE, Massillon, OH 44646, with Calling hours on March 5, 2026, starting at 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The following day, March 6, a Mass will be celebrated at Divine Mercy Parish (St. Joseph), located at 322 3rd ST SE, Massillon, OH 44646, beginning at 12:30 PM.