Dan Evans, the former governor of Washington and U.S. senator, has passed away at the age of 98.
He was remembered as a dedicated public servant who significantly influenced state politics, being the only person to serve three terms as governor until Jay Inslee.
Evans was known for his moderate Republican stance, focusing on environmental issues and education, including the creation of the state’s Department of Ecology.
Born in 1925 in Seattle, Evans transitioned from civil engineering to politics, winning his first gubernatorial election in 1964.
His leadership was characterized by bipartisan cooperation and a commitment to public welfare, as noted by current and former officials who praised his legacy.
After his governorship, he briefly served in the U.S. Senate and later contributed to higher education, including a role as president of Evergreen State College.
His family remembered him as someone who lived a full life dedicated to service and mentoring. Evans is survived by his three sons, following the recent passing of his wife, Nancy Bell Evans.