Daniel J. Evans, a former Washington State Governor turned US Senator, passed away at the age of 98 on September 23, 2021. Evans was a dedicated public servant who served the people of Washington State for over three decades, leaving a lasting impact on the state and the nation as a whole.
Evans was born in Seattle, Washington in 1925 and grew up in the small town of Bothell. He served in the US Navy during World War II before attending the University of Washington, where he earned a degree in civil engineering. Evans then went on to have a successful career in business before entering politics.
Evans was first elected as Governor of Washington in 1964, at the age of 39, making him one of the youngest governors in the state’s history. During his three terms as governor, Evans focused on education, environmental protection, and transportation infrastructure. He was instrumental in the creation of the state’s community college system and the establishment of the Department of Ecology.
In 1983, Evans was appointed to the US Senate to fill a vacancy, and he went on to serve in that capacity until his retirement in 1989. As a Senator, Evans continued to champion environmental causes, as well as issues related to education and transportation. He was known for his bipartisan approach to governance and his willingness to work across party lines to get things done.
Throughout his career, Evans was widely respected for his integrity, intelligence, and dedication to public service. He was a true statesman who put the needs of his constituents above all else. In recognition of his contributions, Evans was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Daniel J. Evans will be remembered as a tireless advocate for the people of Washington State and a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his fellow citizens. His legacy will live on through the many policies and programs he helped to create, as well as the countless lives he touched during his long and distinguished career. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.