Former Washington Governor Dan Evans Dies at 98
SEATTLE — Dan Evans, the celebrated three-term Republican who governed Washington state before serving briefly in the U.S. Senate, has passed away at 98. His death on Friday was confirmed by the University of Washington, an institution he served as a regent and where the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance is named in his honor.
"Dad lived an exceptionally full life," said his sons, Dan Jr., Mark, and Bruce Evans, in a statement to The Seattle Times. They highlighted his dedication to public service and his lasting impact on both governance and education.
Evans was a towering figure in Washington politics for decades. Born in Seattle in 1925, he became a civil engineer before entering politics. After winning a seat in the state Legislature in 1956, he was elected governor in 1964, a rare feat in a challenging year for Republicans. Known for his moderate to liberal Republican stances, Evans made significant strides in environmental policy, creating the nation’s first state Department of Ecology, a precursor to the EPA.
Despite his popularity, Evans turned down opportunities to run for a fourth gubernatorial term and the U.S. Senate multiple times. However, he accepted an appointment to the Senate in 1983 following the death of Democratic Sen. Henry "Scoop" Jackson, but chose not to run for election in 1988 due to the chamber’s "tediousness" and rancorous environment.
Post-governorship, Evans continued his public service as president of The Evergreen State College, a school he helped to establish, and later served on numerous nonprofit and corporate boards. He remained influential in Washington state politics and governance until his later years.
Evans’s enduring legacy is marked by his relentless spirit of public service and his efforts to improve the quality of life in Washington through education and environmental conservation. His contributions continue to shape the state and inspire future public servants.
Original Story https://www.livemint.com/news/world/dan-evans-former-republican-governor-and-us-senator-dies-at-98-11726955029208.html
Category :
Tags:
