[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 62 (Monday, April 27, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E976]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    HONORING THE LIFE OF DAVID EVANS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. DEBORAH L. HALVORSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 27, 2009

  Mrs. HALVORSON. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of 
David Evans of Joliet, Illinois. Mr. Evans passed away in his home on 
Wednesday, March 25, 2009. His legacy will continue to flourish in 
those he left behind: his wife of twenty-five years, Rosie, five 
children, twenty-three grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
  Mr. Evans was a community leader in Joliet for decades. He devoted 
over thirty years to public office, including service on the Will 
County Board and the Joliet School District 86 Board. His record 
illustrates a sincere dedication to education and advocacy for 
children's issues in the community. Mr. Evans was also instrumental in 
promoting positive change in the community--and stated that one of his 
proudest moments was the naming of an elementary school in Joliet after 
African-American actress and Joliet native Lynne Thigpen.
  In addition to his involvement in local government, Mr. Evans was 
also active in numerous community organizations. He founded Joliet Must 
Vote, co-founded Black Pride Inc., was the vice president of the Unity 
Community Development Corp., and served as chairman of the Will County 
Head Start Program. In 2004, he coordinated a Get-Out-the-Vote 
operation for then-Senator Barack Obama.
  The sudden passing of Dave Evans has truly shaken the community. His 
passion for the Joliet community will live on in the many lives he 
touched. He is not only recognized for his community activism, but for 
his life as a husband, father, mentor, advocate, and friend. It is with 
great pride that I honor the life of Mr. David Evans.

                          ____________________