Joseph "Joe" Evans, Sr.

Dr. Joe Evans, Sr., 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday July 10th at Givens Estates surrounded by his loving family. Joe was the son of the late Bill and Dede Evans of Columbus, WI. Joe went to Marquette University Dental School where he was able to express his love of sports by being a guard on the Marquette basketball team. He also served in the ROTC which prepared him for his future Naval career. After college, Joe was sent to the Pacific Theater during World War II and was stationed in China and Japan. After the war Joe started a private dental practice in Columbus, WI where he met and married Marge Klug. This began a touching 65-year relationship which produced an amazing family with 4 children. Joe re-entered the Navy as he felt the need to serve his country. Joe retired after an illustrious 33-year career as a Navy dentist to become the head of Restorative Dentistry at Tufts Dental School in Boston, MA. True retirement finally came calling so Joe and Marge moved to Pisgah Forest, NC. Here Joe could enjoy the beauty of the seasons yet golf whenever he wanted. Joe had a strong faith in God and expressed that faith through his music. Joe was a longtime member and participant in the choir at Fletcher United Methodist Church. Joe was very easy going and always willing to give a helping hand. His family was the center of his life. His love of family reached out to include all he touched. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Marjorie Evans and his brother William Evans Jr. (Marcella). Joe is survived by his four children: Joy Ruecktenwald (Rueck) of Waukesha, WI, Joe Evans Jr. (Kaye) of Ypsilanti, MI, Jean LaFratta of Candler, NC, and John Evans (Melanie) of Newport News, VA, as well as a dear nephew, Bill Evans, III (Deborah) of Mission Viejo, CA. Joe is also survived by his six grandchildren: Joseph Evans III (Stephanie), Jackie Bogues (Jason), Timothy Evans, David LaFratta, Josh Evans, and Katie Evans. Included in his extended family are all his friends, neighbors, and caregivers who will miss him. Just as Marge and Joe were joined in life for 65 glorious years, so will they celebrate in death with a joint memorial service. Their love was an amazing testament for all who knew them. Please help us in celebrating that love at Norma F. Pulliam Chapel at Givens Estates on Friday July 22, 2016 at 1:30 PM with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to either Toys for Tots Asheville (www.asheville-nc.toysfortots.org) or to the Veteran Services of the Carolina's (www.abccm.org/veterans-services/). Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.