Gerald Leon “Gerry” Evans, 82, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 1:13 P.M. Thursday November 9, 2023, at Carle Hoopeston Regional Health Center in Hoopeston. He was born July 2, 1941, in Blair, Nebraska, the son of James Franklin and Mary (McKercher) Evans. He married Karen Sue Wells on November 17, 1961, in Carter Lake, Iowa. She survives in Hoopeston, IL.

He is also survived by one daughter, Jamee (Todd) Thrush of Vancouver, WA; one son, Gerald “Rodney” (Maureen) Evans of Leroy, IL; one son-in-law, Mark Norton of Rossville, IL; two sisters, Carol (Ted) Weseck of Council Bluff, IA and Mariann Stuart of Omaha, NE; two brothers, Jimmy (Vonnie) Evans of Omaha, NE and David (Judy) Evans of Crescent City, IA; four grandchildren, Masen (Megan) Norton, Drew Thrush, Camden Thrush, and Adam Norton; two great-grandchildren, Masie and Weston Norton; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Stanza Norton; three sisters, Shirley Wallar, Janice Jackson and Leeanne Evans; one brother, Charlie Evans; and one brother-in-law, Pat Stuart.

Gerry worked for Ryder Truck Lines and later Holland Truck Line Teamsters Local 26 until his retirement. He enjoyed working outside in his yard and was an avid sports fan. In his earlier years, he enjoyed playing slow-pitch softball and industrial basketball. He also served as a little league coach in Hoopeston for the Silver Bros. team and other leagues in the area.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Gerry to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team (H.A.R.T), 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942.

Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Gerry’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.

Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.