Thomas Evans
Fairfield Glade, Tenn. — Thomas W. Evans, 92, of Fairfield Glade, Tenn., passed on to his heavenly home Jan. 14, 2021, due to post-COVID-19 complications. He was born Oct. 8, 1928, in Hazel Park, Mich. He graduated from Hazel Park High School, ran track as a miler, running his best of 04:46:0. He was able to attend Michigan State University as per recommendation from his high school adviser based on his tenacity above others.
He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Chris; his twin daughters, Jan (Rob) Chamberlain of Stonington and Julianne M. Evans of Orlando, Fla.; grandson Tripp Cottrell of Westerly, of whom he was proud of his academic achievements as well as his shared love of outdoor adventures and the national parks; and his youngest sibling, Janet (Marion) Neal from Arizona. Tom was preceded in death by his brothers Chick, Floyd and Donald; his first wife, Marie (Julianne and Janice); his second wife, Guenivere; his mother, Wanda Durga, and father, Archibald Evans.
He was an engineer for General Motors for over 33 years, and was retired for 35 years. He was most proud of his co-workers and taught them the value of taking pride in their work. He was always interested in learning more about his environment, one that included lake water quality by taking his studies to Woods Hole, which told him he was way ahead of their research — lakes vs. ocean. He enjoyed woodworking, mathematics, science and learning about space exploration. He had an affinity for his beloved dog, Charlie Brown, and his cat, Tiger. They were his constant companions. He missed his prior pets, Rugby and Henry. His daughters were his pride and joy. He was most proud that both daughters learned his value of a strong work ethic, excelled in their respective professions and their willingness to give back to their perspective communities.
Tom was an avid sailor, bridge player, bowler, golfer, tennis player, ice boater and churchgoer. He loved being part of the Green Lake, Mich., Sunday sailing races in which he excelled, and ice boating in West Bloomfield, Mich. He enjoyed building ice boats for the local iceboating club. He was very active in golf and tennis in “The Glade.” He believed in exercise for aerobic reasons and rode his bike around for years carrying his mutt, Rugby, in the basket — all to improve his cardiovascular health to avoid hardening of the arteries. He was a believer in exercise and staying active, walking twice a day up until his hospitalization.
Tom was known for his gregarious and convivial personality. He charmed the crowd wherever he went. He was always the life of the party. He enjoyed being a part of the community, whether it was swimming, walking or throwing a party, such as one that was held to celebrate buying a tool shed. He will be missed terribly. He was very happy in life and loved his home and friends in his retirement in Fairfield Glade, Tenn. The family will plan a Celebration of Life service in the future. In lieu of flowers, please send cards in remembrance to his daughter, Jan Chamberlain, 85 Beach St., Westerly, RI 02891.