Dan Evans, Former Senator and Washington Governor, Passes Away at 98

Dan Evans, a prominent three-term Republican governor of Washington state, passed away at the age of 98. His death was announced Friday by the University of Washington, where he served as a regent and where the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance is named in his honor.

Evans was known for his honorable and independent approach to public service. He dedicated his life to prioritizing the residents of Washington and invested significantly in both the community and the environment. Democratic U.S. Senator Patty Murray expressed her condolences, noting the significant positive impact Evans had on the state over his long career. “We were lucky to have him,” she stated, emphasizing that his legacy would endure for generations.

For decades, Evans was a powerful figure in Washington politics. Until current Governor Jay Inslee, he stood out as the only individual elected governor three times. Inslee reflected on Evans’ accomplishments, acknowledging that regardless of political affiliation, everyone in the state benefited from the progressive policies Evans implemented during his terms.

Born in 1925 in Seattle, Evans initially pursued a career as a civil engineer before transitioning into politics. His political journey began in 1956 when he was elected to the state Legislature. In 1964, he won the governorship in a tough political climate, defeating incumbent Democrat Albert D. Rosellini amidst a challenging year for Republicans, as President Lyndon Johnson secured a significant victory over Barry Goldwater.

Evans was recognized as a moderate to liberal Republican. An enthusiastic outdoorsman, he prioritized the expansion of recreational areas and parks throughout the state. He was instrumental in advancing clean air and water legislation and founded the nation’s first state Department of Ecology, which served as a foundational model for the Environmental Protection Agency under President Richard Nixon.

During his tenure, Evans also advocated for a state income tax but did not pursue a fourth term as governor. Jodi Sandfort, the current dean of the Evans School of Public Policy, remarked on his legacy of fostering collaboration for the greater good and noted that his approach continues to inspire future public servants.

After completing his gubernatorial term in 1977, Evans remained engaged in education as the president of Evergreen State College. He had initially supported the establishment of the university during his time as governor and also played a pivotal role in founding Washington’s community college system.

Evans gained national prominence during his political career, being selected as the keynote speaker at the 1968 National Republican Convention. There were murmurs about him as a potential running mate for President Gerald Ford in 1976, though he ultimately aligned himself with Ford and supported George H.W. Bush in the 1980 elections.

Despite his popularity as a Republican in a predominantly Democratic state, Evans was reluctant to enter Senate races. He expressed his disdain for Washington, D.C., in 1972, stating he found it unappealing and could not envision himself in the Senate. However, the death of Democratic Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson in 1983 led to Evans accepting an appointment to serve the remainder of Jackson’s term. He later chose not to run for election in 1988, citing the frustrating nature of decision-making in the Senate while expressing a desire to return to his outdoor interests.

In his later years, Evans remained connected to the University of Washington as a regent. He also contributed his skills to numerous nonprofit organizations and corporate boards. His sons, Dan Jr., Mark, and Bruce Evans, reflected on their father’s remarkable life, noting his relentless commitment to public service, education, and family. “He touched a lot of lives,” they said, underscoring the balance he maintained between his public duties and family commitments.

Evans’ wife, Nancy Bell Evans, passed away earlier this year at the age of 90.