In Memory of Dorothy Evans

Dorothy Evans, age 84, of Odebolt, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at her residence of Odebolt, Iowa.

A Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Christensen–Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Dorothy Evans, daughter of Paul and Fern (Bappe) Fox, was born on October 27, 1941, in Carroll, Iowa. She was raised on Ashlawn Farm near Odebolt, Iowa, where she developed a deep appreciation for rural life and community. Dorothy graduated from Odebolt-Arthur High School as a member of the Class of 1959.

Following high school, she pursued her passion for helping others by attending Cottey and the University of Iowa, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work in 1963. It was during her college years that she met the love of her life, Robert Ivan Evans. The couple was united in marriage on June 6, 1964, and began their life together in Garner, Iowa, where Dorothy began her career in social work.

In 1966, Dorothy and Robert returned to the family’s Robin Hill Farm, settling into the home built by Dorothy’s grandfather. There, they built a life centered on family and hard work, welcoming their daughter, Rachel, and son, Matthew. Dorothy also lovingly cared for her three-year-old niece, Emily, while her brother Marshall worked out of state, reflecting her generous and nurturing spirit.

Once her children were in school, Dorothy began what would become a 30-plus-year career with the Odebolt-Arthur Community School District. Fondly known as “The Lunch Lady,” she greeted generations of students with warmth and familiarity, punching lunch tickets and keeping meticulous records. Her presence in the cafeteria became a cherished part of many childhoods. Dorothy retired in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and quiet dedication.

In her free time, Dorothy found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved feeding and watching birds, relaxing with classic westerns, lunch at Kathy’s Corner with a cold Ice tea with lemon wedge and a slice of delectable French Silk Chocolate Pie. One of her favorite traditions was enjoying a soft-serve twist cone followed by a peaceful drive around the lake with Robert, affectionately known as “Pa.” She also enjoyed writing the weekly cousin letter, a tradition of sharing the weather and family news.

Dorothy will be remembered for her caring heart, her devotion to family, and the gentle, steady way she touched the lives of those around her.

She leaves behind her children, daughter Rachel D. (Jon) Miller of Newell, Iowa, and son, Matthew J. (Debra) Evans of Omaha, NE; grandchildren: Madison A. (Don) Halverson, Sydney N. Cerizo (special friend Trevor Campbell), Devin M. Cerizo, Brandt M. (Sara) Evans, Braedan J. (Gracie) Evans, and Brenna K. Evans; brother Marshall (Carolyn) Fox; nephew DeeJay Campbell (Amanda, son David); nieces Emily (Alan, daughters Riley and Ashlyn) Williams and Jill (Drew) Lagman; sister-in-law Dee Miller; and many dear and valued friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Fern Fox; husband Robert Evans; in-laws Ivan and Meta Evans.