Jim L. Evans

Jim Lee Evans, 71, died unexpectedly on October 26th, following complications related to his heart. Jim was born in Long Beach, California, to Earl B. Evans and Barbara (Berry) Evans. Jim grew up in Anaheim, California, with his younger brother Larry Evans and sister Susan (Evans) Sherman. He studied drafting at Fullerton College and went on to eventually become an electrical engineer in Washington. He moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1977, settling in Marysville, where he lived until he retired from Panasonic in 2014. Washington’s Puget Sound and many beautiful rivers and lakes allowed him to pursue his passion for fishing and photography. Jim also enjoyed his time spent in nature, traveling, wine tasting, sipping a good Scotch with an occasional cigar, and spending time with his wife Janie, friends and family, and his beloved children and grandchildren.Jim moved to Prescott with his wife Janie in 2014 and was in the process of completing the building of their dream home, working together in the rare partnership they shared. In addition to their friends scattered throughout the country, Jim and Janie were blessed to have been embraced by a large and caring network of friends cultivated in Prescott in a short time, many of whom are also feeling the loss of this “big teddy bear,” as many people have affectionately referred to him.Jim is predeceased by his daughter Lisa Evans, and his parents, Earl and Barbara (Berry) Evans. He is survived by his wife Janie (Swartz) Evans, daughter Sonya Evans and her daughters Audrey and Eliza; his stepson Jason Hettenhouser and wife Renee and their sons Jared and Gabriel; his brother Larry Evans and sister Susan (Evans) Sherman; and many beloved in-laws and extended family members. Jim was known for his generous heart and he did not discriminate between family connected by blood or by love. Jim enjoyed in his retirement years the life that he and Janie created together and looked forward to the plans they shared. His absence from the lives of those who loved him will be felt for some time as we remember his kindness and consideration, his high standards and impeccable attention to detail, his comforting presence, his warm hugs, and his exceptional gin and tonics offered with a carefully cultivated view from any of his beautiful homes over the years. His loved ones find comfort in the memories they have of fishing trips, camping trips, delicious homemade meals, day trips and extended trips, and time spent with family and friends. He left everyone wanting more and grateful for the time we had. Memorial gatherings will be postponed until it is safe to travel and gather, and in the meantime, the family encourages memories to be shared here or on facebook.To honor Jim’s memory in the meantime, please think of him while spending time in nature, take a beautiful photo, send him a toast, or remember a special time spent together. We know that he is at peace and hold him forever in our hearts.