Rex Lee Evans, age 67, of Altoona, passed away Sunday, June 4, 2023.
Rex was born to Virgil and Nancy (Gee) Evans on September 20, 1955, in Des Moines, IA. He was a lifelong resident of the Des Moines area, graduating from Urbandale High School in 1973, and enjoyed keeping in touch with lifelong friends from his youth. He served for a short time in the U. S. Navy on the same ship as his brother, Howard. On October 10, 1975, he married Patti Butler. He loved his job of 42 years working for the Iowa Department of Transportation where he retired from in 2017. To Rex, this was not just a job. He strived to excel in everything he did. Wherever he went, his greatest joy was to encourage others and see them rise to greater heights. After retirement, he worked for Northern Lights Pizza, specifically because he loved to be with people and be a blessing in their lives. He was a sincere servant and a true friend to all that had the privilege of knowing him.
Rex was a member of First Baptist Church and loved to serve where he could. Frequently, he could be seen on the grounds during workdays and even alone when he went to see if anything needed done. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed fishing, spending time outdoors, and sharing this experience with his wife, children, grandchildren (who affectionately called him "Grandpa Kitty"), and other loved ones. He was a faithfully affectionate grandpa, always attending the grandkids’ many sporting events, spending time with them, and loving them unconditionally. He also enjoyed taking photos to capture the precious moments in life. Above all else in his life, Rex loved and cherished his family.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patti Sue (Butler) Evans; daughters, Shawn Evans and Shannon Waskel (Dan); grandchildren, Caleb, Cayla, and Evan; brothers, Howard Evans (Nancy) and Tim Evans (Sheila); and a host of other loving family and friends.
Rex was preceded in death by his infant son, Jeremy; siblings, Virgil (Dean) Evans and Gloria Weichbrodt; and his parents.
Memorial services will be held at First Baptist Church, 3020 E. 38th Street, Des Moines, Iowa. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 14, 2023, and will be livestreamed by the church through this LINK. Burial will follow at the New Altoona Cemetery, Altoona, IA.
We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Northern Lights Pizza for catering a dinner for friends and loved ones after the visitation and for all the individuals that have so kindly reached out with cards, meals, and condolences. We cannot express what a blessing you have all been to us during this time.