Michael Henry Evans

The Lord brought Michael Henry Evans home to him on March 24, 2017.

Michael was born to Don and Ramona Gene Evans on December 25, 1947, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. After graduating from New Mexico State University, he moved to Alaska and began his career at Matanuska Telephone Association. During his 32 years with MTA, he worked as a lineman and foreman, helping to expand the telecommunications infrastructure of Southcentral Alaska.

He was also a founding member of the Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, which provided much needed fire and emergency services to areas of the Mat-Su Valley. Serving as Assistant Chief, he selflessly put his life on the line countless times for the safety of others. In addition, he served as an EMT, providing medical assistance at accident scenes. He served on the department for more than 30 years.

He loved sailing, fishing, hunting, camping, and exploring the wilderness. He was always eager to share these experiences with his three children. He was a true Alaskan, being as comfortable outside in the dead of winter as he was during the long summer days. After retirement, he built his dream cabin up in the mountains, and eventually settled at his seaside home in Long Beach, Washington.

He is survived by his family, loved ones, and countless friends in Alaska, Washington, and New Mexico.

A celebration of life gathering will be held the evening of Friday, March 31, at Penttila's Chapel by The Sea, followed by a burial service on Saturday, April 1, at Lone Fir Cemetery (both in Long Beach, Washington). A memorial service will be held in Alaska at a later date. For the next week, Alaska flags at all Central Mat-Su Fire Departments will fly at half-staff in remembrance of him. He will be greatly missed, and his contributions to his family and community will never be forgotten.