On the evening of May 21, 2015, Richard (Dick) C. Evans passed away from natural causes in Tacoma. Dick was 86 years old.
Dick was born in Prosser, Washington, on April 24, 1929. His youth was spent doing typical “kid” things, but Dick found a way to inject a streak of youthful mischief that would run throughout his life. Swimming in irrigation ditches and nearly drowning, or grabbing a few handfuls of sweet red cherries from the neighbor’s tree were only a few of the many stories he shared with his children and their children, too. Dick loved sharing and listening to the stories of his family.
He spent the next few years in the Aberdeen-Hoquiam area.
Dick’s high school years were spent in Winthrop, a place that he grew to consider as home. Dick grew to quite the athlete, playing football, basketball and baseball. And he often said that these sports were his favorite part of school. He lettered in all three sports, and for a time considered becoming a coach — a passion he passed down to his children and grandchildren, earning himself the nickname “Grandpa Football” in the process. However, Dick felt a calling and enlisted in the Army after he graduated from high school in 1947.
Dick honorably served his country for a total of 41 years; he served 27 years of active duty. During his active duty, he served in California, Germany, Korea, and finally in Ft. Lewis, Washington. He retired as a command sergeant major. The remaining 14 years were spent in the civil service, where his duty was in personnel management at Madigan Army Medical Center and Ft. Lewis. He retired as chief of personnel, 4th Region ROTC.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents and a brother. He is survived by his wife, Wanda; seven children, Richard M. Evans, Robert Evans (Tammy), David Evans (Beverly), Dennis Evans (Deborah), Patti Eggleston (Richard), Victoria Evans, and Lawrence Evans; and three stepchildren, Kathy Davis, Tom Lakey (Debbie), and Ken Lakey (Karen). He is also survived by a large blended, extended family: 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are a half-brother, Del Evans, and half-sister, Nadine Griffin.
One of Dick’s greatest joys was his family, which was evident to all who spoke with him. This love of his family showed in his words and actions. Even with such a large family, he took great interest in the successes and struggles of each child, grandchild, great grandchild and great-great grandchild, celebrating and supporting each one.
He was deeply loved, and will be greatly missed.
The family would be pleased for you to join them at Dick’s memorial service, which will be held at Winthrop’s Sullivan Cemetery at a later date. Watch The Methow Valley News for the announcement. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or a charity of your choice.
