John Raymond Evans, 86, of Deer River, MN, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born December 29, 1939, in Deer River to Florence (Schwochert) and Frank Evans, the third of twelve children.

John grew up hunting and gardening and helping provide for his family. After graduating from Deer River High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army on his 18th birthday. Upon returning home, he worked in construction before a long career at Blandin Paper Company as a millwright, where he earned the nickname "Ole Flat Top."

On August 31, 1963, John married Sheila Jokinen. Together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and family. They farmed south of Deer River, where they raised six children and fostered four more.

John enjoyed farming, raising cattle, gardening, and mechanical work. Known for his resourcefulness, he could build or fix nearly anything—even crafting his own saddle. He cherished time with family, including summer trips in a blue bus he converted into a camper and annual outings for horse shows, trail rides, and deer hunting.

He was a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Ball Club, serving as a trustee and steadfast clergy member. His faith, strong work ethic, and honesty were guiding principles in his life.

John is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sheila; his children, Leigh Evans, Heather (Jess) Willard, Jennifer (Jeff) Morris, Joseph (Mary) Evans, and Chris (Elana) Evans; and his grandchildren, Elysia, Jeffrey Jr., Faith, Hope, Emma, Lanie, Eli, Maggie, Lane, Natalia, Edmund, Luke, Cecilia, and Ava.

He is also survived by his siblings, Jerry (Nancy) Evans, Michael (Lorraine) Evans, Carol Gielen, Kathy Tatro, Marcia (Robert) Dorry, Peggy Vaneps, Nadine (Greg) Hopkins, and Roberta (Walter) Houtari; sisters-in-law Harriet Evans and Linda Hagabeck; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Raymond John Evans; his parents; his sister, Ella (Jerry) Parker; and his brothers, James and Patrick Evans.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 10:00 am at St. Augustine's Catholic Church, Cohasset, MN followed by the 11:00 am Mass of Christian Burial. Military honors and burial will take place at Olivet Cemetery, Deer River, MN following the service.