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Robert Evans Obituary
Robert Neldon Evans was born on May 12, 1944 to Neldon, "Dick" and Dorothy Evans. He died on June 14, 2013 at home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. Bob was first and foremost a father and friend, an entrepreneur, community builder and athlete.
Bob grew up in Lehi, Utah and graduated from Lehi High School in 1962 where he was student body president, member of the football, tennis, and basketball teams, debater and star student. "Bobby Evans" was widely loved by his large circle of family and friends. "Evie" graduated from the University of Utah in 1966 where he played on the tennis team and was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
Bob made friends everywhere he went, treating servers in restaurants, customers or tennis or golf friends with the same kindness, enthusiasm and interest. He made all of us feel valued and heard.
In 1966, Bob moved to San Francisco to work at U.S. Steel and have an adventure with his college and lifetime friend, Phil Clinger. In 1967, he married Kathy Eastmond. Together they had four children: Sean, Scott, Jake and Aly and were a family that loved the outdoors, sports, and their wide circle of friends in the Bay Area. They divorced in 1990. Bob built a beautiful farmhouse in the Napa valley with his sons and loved nothing more than telling the story about that process and looking out on the view from that lovely place. He loved his children. He started two businesses in California: Jabberwocky and The Mind's Eye with his partner Bob Lewis. Tennis was one of Bob's best tools for making friends, pushing himself, and engaging in social networks. He loved human beings. Always the entrepreneur, always the believer in the next opportunity, always the hardest worker in the room, Bob believed in the future and embraced every day with the same enthusiasm, optimism, energy and verve.
In 1999, Bob came to Utah to be with his sweetheart, Martha Sonntag Bradley. He married her in 2002 and easily loved her six children as their "other" dad. Jason, Elizabeth, Rachael, Emily, Katelyn, and Patrick were blessed by his love, generosity and affection. Together they have eight grandchildren: Aspen and Dylan Bradley-Wilson, Krissie Beckham, Stella and Ruby Bradley, Jaxon and Aliya Potts, and Akolea Evans.
When he moved to Salt Lake City, he bought Rimini Coffee and a few years later started Sugarhouse Coffee and eventually Café Marmalade. Bob's background and training was in business, but it was in community building that he excelled. Sugarhouse Coffee became the vehicle for Bob to help build a strong sense of community among the Sugar House merchants. He was always on the front line of political issues impacting the city-the streetcar, the farmers market, the Fourth of July street party, and the hundreds of minor issues small businesses face. The Sugarhouse Merchants Association designated Bob Evans, the "unofficial mayor of Sugarhouse" in 2012.
Bob Evans was the best man we knew. He was a tender hearted and strong man who loved using his body to work, to play sports, to embrace those he loved (he gave great hugs). We were so honored to be his family.
Bob leaves a giant hole in our hearts. His father, Neldon Sylvester Evans, and Dorothy Smith Evans preceded him in death. He leaves behind a fantastic family of sisters and one brother, Donna and Grant Gordon, Sandra and Richard Worthen, Joann Evans, and Jay Evans, and, a tremendous family of children who have supported him through this very difficult year: Sean Robert Evans, Scott Ryan Evans, Jacob Richard and Naiomi Evans, Alyson Evans, Jason Michael and Sharley Bradley, Elizabeth Martha Bradley-Wilson and Mark Wilson, Rachael Betsy Bradley, Emily Jane and Jorel Potts, Katelyn May Bradley, and Patrick Nicholas and Alisa Bradley. His wife, Martha Bradley Evans, loved him and stood with him through his struggle with cancer.
Funeral services will be Friday, June 21, 2013 at 11:00 at the Granite Stake Center, 2005 South and 9th East. Guests can visit with the family between 10:00 and 10:45 at the church. There will be an open house where friends can visit with the family Thursday night from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Memorial House at 485 N. Canyon Road in Salt Lake City.
Flowers may be sent to Larkin Mortuary or donations to the Robert N. Evans scholarship fund may be sent to Wells Fargo Bank.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Evans
Sponsored by Tami Cleveland.
Rob Hutchins
August 14, 2025
I just found this while searching for my old friend and employer. Bob hired me to work for him in his warehouse at Jabberwockey, Mind´s Eye in Novato CA. when I was about 16. He was a friend and a mentor and I have great memories of working for him and playing basketball on our lunch break. What a great guy!
August 28, 2013
Dear Evans Family,
I just learned of Bob's passing via the Beta network, and am shocked and saddened by the news. I was active with Bob in the Beta House during the 1960's, and recall many wonderful conversations and adventures with him during that precious time. A few years after our U of U graduations and having embarked on our respective career paths, Bob in California and me in New York City, Bob showed up one day at my office in Manhattan to say hello.
He agreed to come home with me to my Connecticut home and stay overnight, resulting in a sleepless night of laughter and storytelling. That was my last contact with him (this would have been circa 1976). I wish his entire family All Good Wishes, and I'm so fortunate to have known him as a Beta Brother and friend.
Sincerely,
Scott Johnson
1132 on the Gamma Beta Roll
Tami Cleveland
August 27, 2013
"The pain passes, but the beauty remains". --Pierre Auguste Renoir (1841-1919)
Thereds Gibson
July 3, 2013
Scoty So Deeply Sorry For Your loss
Salpointe Catholic High School
July 2, 2013
The Salpointe Catholic High School community extends deepest sympathy to the Evans family. You are in our prayers at this difficult time.
Richard Middleton
June 27, 2013
When you get new neighbors and you share a narrow driveway, you worry. When both you and your new neighbors are completely renovating your houses – simultaneously – you really worry. It says a great deal about Bob and Marti's characters that we survived that time, while backhoes, concrete trucks and assorted contractors came and went, without ever exchanging a cross word. The entire undertaking - a complicated and difficult project, carried out with great skill and determination, resulting in a house that is a true gem - seems to me to typify Bob: endlessly creative (who else would use an antique radiator to keep cars off the flower beds?), and unfailingly good-humored even in the face of the inevitable disasters. I count myself fortunate to have had him as a friend and neighbor, and I hope that Marti and the rest of his family will be able to put this awful year behind them and remember the happy times. He was a good and caring person, and I shall miss him terribly.
Brock Smith
June 23, 2013
Our family loved to joke around with Bob, and he with us, about the whole BYU/Utah rivalry. When Bob went in for the brain surgery I texted him that maybe the surgery would help him see things more clearly and he may become a BYU fan. Bob's reply, "Small chance for that . . . I'm having brain surgery, not a total lobotomy. My doctors are pro life and that would kill me." Staring it in the face, he still found a way to laugh.
I still use the brief lesson on forehand and backhand grip he gave to me when I was a teenager whenever I teach someone new to tennis. Will miss this great man!
Jim Agutter
June 21, 2013
Marti,
I am so sorry for your loss. Bob was an amazing person and his energy and passion will be missed greatly. I have all your families in my thoughts during this difficult time. Much love, respect and sympathy,
jim & Karri
Marti Ashby
June 20, 2013
Marti,
You lived a beautiful love story. Not many people can say that about the love in their lives. I grieve for your loss and wish the very best for you and your dear family, both the Bradley and Evans clans.
Love you, Marti
June 20, 2013
Our love and prayers to all the Evans Family. We were priveleged to be Bob's next door neighbors for many years at the Napa home. We will miss the visits to Napa and catching up on all the family. We are here for you all.
Love, John and Holly Shackford
Cecilia Uriburu
June 20, 2013
Martha,
We are so sorry that you lost your love and companion...Bob was truly an amazing person. We are here for you now and always,
Ceci and Jay.
Carole Hanson
June 19, 2013
Much love, respect and sympathy to the family of one of the world's finest men. I have known Bob for many years through Rimini as he has been the employer and friend to three of my sons. He was always so friendly, kind, supportive... a very fine and decent man. So many people will miss his bright light in this world. He has deeply touched many lives and hearts.
June 19, 2013
Marty - I thought your relationship with Bob was a great love story. I will never forget how much you were in love when you visited us in Deer Valley when Pete and Heidi were here. He was a very special man and you are a very special woman. I am so sorry! Karyn Haeckel
Debbie Tinker
June 19, 2013
What a wonderful legacy Bob has left you all! He was an outstanding man and friend. I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to make his acquaintance and work with him. He always made me laugh. He will be sorely missed.
Andrea and Philippe Wyffels
June 18, 2013
We are deeply saddened to hear of Bob's passing. There will be many moments of sadness but many more of fond memories. We will miss Bob very much as a neighbor and friend. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
June 18, 2013
Dear Marti and family,
We met Bob at a Utah Football game. He impressed us with his warmth and kindness. It was evident how much he loved you and loved life. We are out of town this week and send our condolences and love. Chase, Jim and I feel blessed to count you as a friend.
Love, Jeanne N. Jardine
Shauna and Jim Bradley
June 18, 2013
Our love to Marti and all of Bob's family. What a great guy! We are so sorry for your loss, but know what comfort you will have in the days and years ahead as you remember the good times and the legacy of love he has left to you.
Shad
June 18, 2013
It has been said "you're not ready to live, until you know what you want written on your tombstone."
I think Bob had it figured out - and now it's being written by others for him. . .
Steve Auerbach
June 18, 2013
I worked with Bob on music bookings at the old Sugar Beats and I will miss Bob very much - he was always so great to work with. My sincere condolences for the Evans family - what a wonderful man.
Lisa Adamson
June 18, 2013
I only met Bob once, but he left his mark on me forever! What a beautiful and amazing human being. He was a kind, thoughtful, enjoyable, patient, forgiving and loving soul. I am blessed to have had 3 of my 5 brother's work with him over the years! My heartfelt condolences to the entire family.
Action Printing & Design
June 18, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
June 18, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
June 18, 2013
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Barb and Mateo Remsburg
June 18, 2013
Marti and family, you are in our thoughts. We hope that you feel all of the love from those around you.
Lost this Family Now he has my only son...........
Briney B.
June 18, 2013
I am very sorry for your families loss I am still going through it 4 years later after my daughter passed Anastasia Bella Bratcher! I loved that little girl I never met her in real life but I do have a 15 yr old Adopted Daughter and she was a TRUE Angel. Annie Grace Kasprzak God BLESS Everyones souls. Amen. R.I.P. Buddy
Aimee & Topher Horman
June 18, 2013
Much love to your family from ours.
Maurine Ward
June 18, 2013
Marti, I am so sorry to hear about your husband's death. I hope that you will be comforted at this time by your many friends who love you.
James Adelman
June 17, 2013
Bob was my inspiration to promote Art and Music in Sugar House. I told him last year we should build a statue of him holding up the Monument in Sugar House. I enjoyed the short time I knew him.
Josie Twinting
June 17, 2013
Bob was truly an inspirational mentor. I will never forget his outrageous stories (like the time he got a hole in one during a golf game), charisma, warm smile, and "Bob jobs." He was a true visionary and strived to create a better community for us all. Thanks uncle bob!
Pamela O'Mara
June 17, 2013
It's hard to imagine a world without Bob Evans!
Bob brightened every corner of every room from the minute he walked in.
My life is so much richer for having known Bob.
So much love to his wonderful family.
Donna Barnes
June 17, 2013
Bob and I were buddies growing up in Lehi. He was smart, funny, and kind. We were the Second Ward gang and thought we were the greatest neighborhood around. I thought so much of Bob I named my first born After him. I was deeply saddened and shocked when I read of his passing. May your family be blessed.
Donna Barnes
Cheriu Udell Robinson
June 17, 2013
Deepest sympathy to your family. Bob was a classmate and I very much enjoyed seeing him at the reunion.
Brian B
June 17, 2013
The world lost a good man. We will miss you Bob but we will never forgot your kindness, support and generosity.
Ric Cude
June 17, 2013
Bob was a great Person he cared about how you were doing.He had a good spirit about everything. He will be greatly missed our heart go to the family in there loss. R. Cude/S.T.I.
Thomas Singer
June 17, 2013
Bob was my tennis doubles partner for twenty years in Mill Valley. No one will be surprised to know that Bob always took the overheads--a fabulous competitor, a loyal friend--Bob was the best!!!! Tom Singer
Monique Epstein
June 17, 2013
I can't even picture Bob without that warm smile on his face. Heaven's in for a treat, and he'll be sorely missed by so many. Monique Epstein
Stephanie Wright
June 17, 2013
Bob was so welcoming to The Art of Business 2 networking group. We met there weekly and let us have the space without any questions. He was a great man and supporter of Sugarhouse.
He will be missed.
Danny Knee
June 17, 2013
It was impossible not to feel like family around Bob...he raised the most amazing family I've ever known and helped raise me. Each of his children including my best friend, Scott, is a mirror of his generosity, warmth, industry, and optimism about the world. I will miss my too infrequent long conversations with him and especially his stories about his children's and my childhood. I loved the way he saw us all. My love goes to every member of the Evans family. Bob was a good one...no, a great one and quite simply there are not enough like him anymore.
Jani Fleet
June 17, 2013
June 17, 2013
Even though I didn't see Bob that often, when I did, whether at my office or at an enjoyable event, it was always a fun visit. His knowledge of, and experience in, so many areas made conversations something to look forward to. I especially enjoyed Marti's and Bob's open house. Thanks, Bob, for the memories. Dearest Marti, my sincere condolences.
Jani Fleet.
Calvin Gibbs
June 17, 2013
Bob shared so much and asked for so very little. I will teach my children the same!
Haley and Gabe Cohn
June 17, 2013
Much love and support being sent the Evans' Family way as we say goodbye to a very, very special soul. We will miss Bob dearly and we send you all our love and light.
Diane Evans
June 17, 2013
My husband, Mike Evans, has spoken about his friend Bob his entire life; their school days together, serious tennis playing and various escapades as friends. I was blessed to meet him and Marty several years ago. Bob was truly the larger than life person Mike always said he was. We saw Bob tear apart and hand build, remodel an old home by the Capitol - an enormous daunting challenge; he laughed during the entire tour as if it was easy! He seemed to have fun doing everything! Mike and I send our love to Marty and all of Bob's family. Peace to Bob, peace to all of you. You were privileged to have him in your lives - and he touched all of us.
Shea
June 17, 2013
Hey Bob, Thanks for teaching me how to act on the golf Course.
June 16, 2013
"Uncle Bobber" made Barrow Lane a better place to live in the Napa Valley...he will be missed......Steve and Lee Stefanki
Chad Morris
June 16, 2013
I haven't seen or talked to Bob in several years but back in day, when we were in our fifties, we played on the Snowbird "old man" tennis team. We even went to the national tournament twice as team members. Although we rarely played together as partners, one year in the Sectional tournament in Boise we did team up. My fond memories of Bob were generated just as this story goes; I started serving the match. My first serve was in and the opponent blasted a backhand winner past me. The next first serve went in as well and after a vigorous exchange we lost the point. I again made a first serve and once again a backhand winner went screaming past me. Down 40 love I again nailed a first serve but we still lost the point. Four first serves (an unusual occurrence for me) and we still lost the game at love. We rallied over the next few games and as the fifth game approached we were tied at 2 games a piece. I decided to again serve to the backhand in the deuce court. Once again the ball was hit for a clean winner past me. Bob, always the gentleman and mentor, sauntered back to the baseline and discretely said, "Hey Morris it might be best to serve to his forehand!" Always trainable, I complied and we went on to win that game. He was always great fun, kind and gentle, and a hell of a tennis player. It was an honor to be his friend. I'm positive he's working the crowd as he stands in line before St. Peter.
Maggie Shaw
June 16, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. We was a great guy that made you feel welcomed. Will miss his smile..Godspeed Bob.....
June 16, 2013
The world will miss that cheerful smile that shed sunshine in any company. It wasn't in him to turn his back on life. He was a sister's inspiration. What a guy!
Erica Smith
June 16, 2013
Bob was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time.
Amy Barry
June 16, 2013
I feel so lucky to have known and worked with Bob Evans. He truly was a community builder and it was in that capacity I have known him. He truly was a piece of the Sugar House heart and we will miss his presence, his energy, his ideas and his giving spirit. Most of all we will miss seeing him. Every time you ran into Bob it brought a smile to your face.
My sincerest condolences to his family. My thoughts are with you.
Emily
June 16, 2013
Happy Fathers Day!!! I love and miss you!
Dave Rowland
June 16, 2013
I knew Bob through an endless number of lively conversations we had at Sugar House Coffee over the last decade and more, most in the company of my friend Matthew Airmet. His breadth of interests and his ever planning creativity was amazing! Through it all, he, without being assuming, revealed a deep kindness, empathy and love for people and excitement in life experience. He was a wonderful person, a sentiment not lightly chosen. I have missed not seeing him for the better part of a year, and now it must be for the duration. Love to Bob's loved ones, and to Bob--Godspeed.
Elbert Peck
June 16, 2013
Bob is one of the finest people I know. Even while moving a heavy washing machine down a too narrow hall and punching holes in the wall of his new house, he was merry and made every minute with him delightful. Bob is one of the good guys who cares deeply about people and their lives.
Dave Foss
June 16, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to Rachael and family. Your dedication to family during Bob's illness is an inspiration to us all. May God be with you in this time of great sorrow.
Matthew Airmet
June 15, 2013
I met Bob shortly after moving to SLC from the Bay Area 12 years ago. Since then we have had countless conversations - every one of those talks have been about specific ways to make our community, our city, our world into a better place. Bob loved Life! He brought a vibrant fascination and supportive love to each day's discoveries. His love for Martha came up in every discussion, as it did for his children, his employees, his friends, our city and the world at large. He will be constantly missed but never forgotten. I love you, brother.
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