Dr. Joseph S Covert

Dr. Joseph S. Covert, 89, of Zanesville, died Sunday, February 6, 2011 at the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center in Akron. Dr. Covert was born in Zanesville, May 2, 1921, the son of the late Chester L. and Margaret Hormuth Covert. He graduated from Lash High School, then from the Illinois College of Optometry in March 1943. Immediately following graduation, he was enlisted in the United States Army Medical Corps where he was instrumental in establishing the eye clinic at Ft. Moultrie near Charleston, S.C. In 1995, Dr. Covert was one of 12 optometrists of the World War II era honored for distinguished service in the United States Army Medical Corps. Upon his discharge in 1946, he returned home to Zanesville where he entered the private practice of optometry until his retirement in 1992. During his career, he was instrumental in establishing optometry as a clinical entity. He served two terms on the Ohio State Board of Examiners, the second term as President. He also served on National and International Boards of Optometry, the Executive Board of the Ohio Optometric Association, and the Legal and Legislative Council of the American Optometric Association. He was preceded in death by his wife Gertrude, whom he married on Valentine's Day 1943. He is survived by their children, Stephen, Kathleen, Elizabeth Alberto and Chester James; ten grandchildren, Joseph Covert, Karen Covert, Joshua Haugh, Allison Moten, Marianne Haugh, Carrie Covert, Jocelyn Schultz, Emily Covert, Samuel Covert and Chad Covert; and five great grandchildren. In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by sisters, Jane Ross and Vivian Householder. Friends and family may call from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, February 10, 2011 and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 11, 2011 at the Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home, 1271 Blue Ave., Zanesville. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 11, 2011 at the funeral home with Rev. Doris Flynn officiating. Dr. Covert will be laid to rest beside his beloved Gertrude in Williams Cemetery, Zanesville. The United States Army in conjunction with VFW George Selsam Post #1058 will hold full military rites at the graveside. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Spina Bifida Association, 4590 MacArthur Blvd. NW, Suite #250, Washington, DC 20007. To send a note of condolence, a sympathy card or comfort food to the Covert family: www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com