Dan Evans, a popular Republican governor of Washington who served three terms and later in the U.S. Senate, has died at age 98, the University of Washington confirmed Friday.
Evans, who left a lasting impression on state and national politics, died after an extraordinary career in public service spanning decades.
Evans, born in Seattle and trained as a civil engineer, first entered politics in 1956 when he was elected to the state legislature.
In memory of Daniel J. Evans, a visionary leader and proud UW alumnus. Evans passed away yesterday at the age of 98.
He served 3 terms as Governor of WA and as a US Senator. His legacy lives on through the Evans School of Public Policy & Governance here at UW. | https://t.co/rQkLWC6ivU photo.twitter.com/6KsccmpbfP— University of Washington (@UW) September 21, 2024
He won the governorship in 1964, defeating the incumbent Democrat Albert D. Rosellini. Evans’ three terms, from 1965 to 1977, made him one of Washington’s most prominent political figures.
He was the first person elected to serve three terms as governor, a feat unmatched until current Governor Jay Inslee.
It’s hard to think of another Washington native who has made such a positive impact in so many areas as Dan Evans.
All of us, regardless of party affiliation, can count ourselves lucky for the progress he made during each of his three terms as governor. https://t.co/yiudQ74yP3
— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) September 21, 2024
Evans was known for his moderate to liberal Republican views and was an advocate for environmental protection. He led the creation of the nation’s first state Department of Ecology, a model for the federal Environmental Protection Agency.
His efforts to expand state parks and introduce clean air and water legislation left an important environmental legacy.
In a statement quoted by the Seattle Times, his sons Dan Jr., Mark and Bruce Evans reflected on his legacy: “Dad lived an exceptionally full life… He touched many lives. And he did it without sacrificing his family.”
Evans’ tenure as governor was marked by efforts to modernize the state’s infrastructure and education system.
He signed legislation establishing The Evergreen State College and supported the creation of the community college system in Washington.
Governor Dan Evans has had an enormous impact on our state, from representing Seattle to his environmental advocacy and honest discussions to the UW School of Public Policy that bears his name. He was a true and tireless public servant, my sincere condolences to his family. https://t.co/nbWXMYupnU
— Mayor Bruce Harrell (@MayorofSeattle) September 21, 2024
He also made an unsuccessful attempt to introduce a state income tax.
After his time as governor, Evans served as president of The Evergreen State College before accepting an appointment to the U.S. Senate in 1983, filling the seat left vacant by the death of Democratic Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson.
Although Evans had previously indicated that he was not interested in politics in Washington, D.C., he agreed to complete Jackson’s term.
However, he decided not to run for re-election in 1988, saying he was frustrated with the Senate’s slow pace and felt resentful about it.
In his later years, Evans remained active in public life, serving as a trustee of the University of Washington, his alma mater, and on several nonprofit and corporate boards.
Both candidates for governor also released statements regarding the former governor’s passing.
Dave Reichert
“I am saddened to learn that Governor Dan Evans has passed away. Dan was a shining example for those of us in office who were willing to work with others, regardless of ideology or party, to get things done for the people of Washington. Keeping Washington clean, green and pristine was a passion for Governor Evans and I was honored to work with him during my time in Congress to preserve our natural beauty for generations to come. He was a titan of Washington politics and will be deeply missed. My prayers are with his family as they grieve this tremendous loss.”
Bob Ferguson
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a Washington legend, former Governor Dan Evans. Evans was more than a senator, governor, and civic leader; he was a Washington native who always put the people, places, and institutions of his state above political party and personal ambition. His legacy is seen today in the forests and mountains he helped protect, in the communities and economies he helped thrive, and in his beloved University of Washington, which he helped transform into a global leader in higher education.
“The term ‘Dan Evans Republican’ became synonymous with his leadership style: moderate, pragmatic, and always putting Washington’s interests first. I grew up with parents who really fit that mold, who organized fundraisers for Evans early in his career and really believed in his approach. I learned from them — and from him — many of the values that I have tried to bring to my own public service.
“We mourn his loss as a state, but know that his decades of dedication and service to the people of our state leave an enduring legacy. We are grateful not only for Dan Evans’ leadership, but for the manner in which he led. Our thoughts are with his family as we remember and celebrate all he accomplished for the people of Washington State.”
