Dan Evans, a towering figure in Washington state politics, passed away on September 20, 2024 at the age of 98. Known for his moderation and bipartisan approach, Evans served as the state’s governor for three consecutive terms from 1965 to 1977 and later as a U.S. senator. His influence left an indelible mark on the state, shaping its political landscape for decades.
Evans was born on October 16, 1925 in Seattle, Washington. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in civil engineering. His political journey began in 1956 when he was elected to the Washington State Legislature. His first major political victory came in 1964 when he defeated Democratic incumbent Albert Rosellini to become Washington’s governor.
Evans was widely regarded as a moderate-to-liberal Republican who prioritized environmental and educational reforms. During his tenure as governor, he created the nation’s first state Department of Ecology, a model later used by President Richard Nixon for the Environmental Protection Agency. Evans’ commitment to clean air and water was evident in the legislation he championed during his time in office.
Beyond environmental causes, Evans was instrumental in shaping higher education in Washington state. He played a key role in founding the state’s community college system. He signed the legislation that created Evergreen State College, where he later served as president after his time as governor. His efforts in this area were praised by leaders on both sides of the aisle, with former Democratic House Speaker Thomas Foley calling him “one of the most thoughtful and effective governors in the country.”
Evans’ influence extended beyond state politics. In 1983, following the death of Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson, he was appointed to the U.S. Senate to complete Jackson’s term. However, Evans found the Senate less rewarding than his time as governor. He often expressed frustration with the chamber’s slow pace and divisive nature. “The tediousness of getting decisions made” was one reason he chose not to run for re-election in 1988.
Evans’ legacy is characterized by his ability to work across party lines. Despite being a Republican, he was known for his independent thinking and willingness to challenge his own party’s conservative factions. He sought to distance the Washington State Republican Party from far-right influences, including the John Birch Society. His moderate stance on issues like abortion rights and environmental protection earned him respect from Democrats and Republicans alike. “Accomplishing good things takes bipartisan effort,” he once said, “because often what we’re trying to accomplish isn’t partisan.”
Current Washington Governor Jay Inslee reflected on Evans’ enduring impact, noting that “we all, no matter our party, can feel fortunate for the progress he led during each of his three terms as governor.”
Dan Evans remained active well into his later years, serving as a regent at the University of Washington and on various nonprofit and corporate boards. He continued to enjoy outdoor activities, particularly mountain climbing and hiking, which reflected his deep appreciation for the environment he worked so hard to protect.
Evans is survived by his three sons and nine grandchildren. His wife, Nancy Bell Evans, passed away earlier this year, leaving behind a partnership that had supported his long and distinguished career.
