Daniel Evans, age 83, of Escanaba, passed away Monday afternoon, November 6, 2017 at his home surrounded by family. He was born on February 8, 1934 in Blakely, PA, the son of Daniel and Audrey (Lewis) Evans. Dan grew up in Blakely and at a young age he lost both of his parents. At age 11, he moved to Hershey, PA to attend Milton Hershey School which was a school for orphaned boys. Dan was proud to have graduated from Milton Hershey School in 1952. Just last month he traveled to Hershey, PA to celebrate his 65th class reunion. Following graduation, Dan moved to Escanaba because of an uncle who made a positive impact on his life. He began work at Theisen-Clemens Oil Company. Dan then delivered oil for Hansen and Jensen Oil Company for a few years. He married the former Bonnie Lee Polmateer on September 1, 1956 at the Salvation Army in Escanaba and she preceded him in death on January 31, 2013. Together, the couple shared 56 years of marriage and raised four children. Daniel was employed by Clairmont Transfer Company as a freight driver for 38 years until his retirement on November 6, 1991.

Daniel had a deep love for life and cherished every moment. He was strong in his faith as a life-long member at the Salvation Army in Escanaba where he taught Sunday school and was part of the well-known string band. Throughout the years, he volunteered his time as a baseball and hockey coach – for both boys and girls, and was involved in the U.P. Steam and Gas Association. Dan enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren grow and play sports as they were the light of his life. He had a talent for ventriloquism and would bring “Mr. Muddles” with him to many places. Dan had a wonderful sense of humor and viewed every one he met as a friend. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping. Dan also loved canning to preserve his wonderful garden goods he spent the summer growing. He made such an impact on so many lives and will be missed by so many.

Daniel Evans is survived by children, Cindy (Jim O’Connor) Williams, Connie (Bob) Porath, Crystal (Clinton) Carlson, and Danny Evans; grandchildren, Audrey (Kevin) Marenger, Mike Evans (Nikki Lund), Kyle Williams, Molly Williams, Rodney (Tracy) Porath, Cassandra (Brad) Burkett, Brock Smith, Marisa Carlson, Brandan Krauss, Madison Carlson, Macie Carlson, Andy (Cassie) Evans, Amber Zakem, Libby Cretens, Chloe Evans, and Tilli Evans; great-grandchildren, Michael Marenger, Meghan Marenger, Brennen Lauscher, Landen Evans, Xavier Porath, Logan Porath, Phoenix Porath, Rogue Porath, Britain Burkett, Braelyn Evans, Parker Evans, and Blaine Evans; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Daniel was preceded in death by sister, June Gagner; and brothers, Willie and Richard Evans.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday November 11, 2017 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Daniel will follow at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, at the Salvation Army in Escanaba with Major Ralph Hansen officiating. A luncheon will be served afterward in the church fellowship hall. Burial will take place in Lakeview Cemetery. 

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