Edward Lee Evans

Edward Lee Evans, the son of Thomas Lee and Alta Grace (Plumb) Evans, was born on January 19, 1925, in Sibley, Iowa. When he was young, he moved to Harlan, Iowa, with his parents. Ed attended Harlan schools. On July 11, 1944, he enlisted in the Army, where he served during World War II. After the war ended, he was stationed in Alaska. In May, 1947, he was discharged. On February 24, 1948, Ed married Lucille Ann Jessen in Bentonville, Arkansas. The couple first lived in Exira, Iowa, and later, farmed in Shelby County, Iowa. From 1955-63, Ed and Lucille lived in California. In 1963 they moved to Atlantic, Iowa, and in 1971, they made their residence in Kimballton, Iowa. For many years, Ed worked as a heavy equipment operator, working in road and bridge construction. An injury forced Ed’s retirement in 1985.

Ed was a proud American veteran and AMVETS member who faithfully flew his flag every day. He loved gardening flowers and vegetables.

Edward L. Evans died on Saturday, May 7, 2005, at Myrtue Memorial Hospital in Harlan, Iowa, at the age of 80 years, 3 months, and 18 days.

Preceding Ed in death were his parents; his stepmother, Helen Evans; and one sister, Arlene Nelson. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Lucille Evans of Kimballton, Iowa; four sons, John (Kay) Evans of Richland, Iowa, Charles Evans of Placitas, New Mexico, Jerry (Tracie) Evans of Elk Horn, Iowa, and Randy (Cindy) Evans of Cleveland, Ohio; one brother, Gerald Evans of Atlantic, Iowa; three sisters, Jane Clemsen of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, Dexter Sorensen of Harlan, Iowa, and Grace Ann (Jack) Knudsen of Harlan, Iowa; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 11, 2005, at the Burmeister-Johannsen Funeral Home in Harlan, Iowa, with Pastor Kevin Nelson and Rev. Frosty VanVoorst officiating. Marcia Nelson served as the organist and Jason Evans and Rev. Frosty VanVoorst were the soloists. Casket bearers were Jason Evans, Eric Thornburg, Chad Anderson, Tim Gessert, Brad Madsen, and Terry Nelson. Burial was in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Kimballton, Iowa, with military rites performed by the AMVETS. Burmeister-Johannsen Funeral Home in Harlan was in charge of the arrangements.