Evan J. Sorenson

1922 - 2012

Veteran – Coach – Educator – Rancher – Aggie
LOGAN - Evan J. Sorenson, age 90, passed away on Dec. 21, 2012, peacefully at his home. 
Ev was born in the small rural community of Central, Idaho on March 2, 1922. He was the son of Nina J. and Thomas LeRoy Sorenson. In his early years, Ev and his brothers helped their parents in their farming and ranching endeavors. At a very young age, he was taught the value of hard work as well as the importance of living the golden rule. He continued to live and emulate these principles throughout his life. Even though the family had little money, he learned to appreciate what he had. He often found relief from the daily struggles of life by participating in sports. He was a gifted athlete and natural leader. He attended two-room schools in Ovid and Grace, Idaho. Later, he graduated from North Gem High School in 1940 in Bancroft, Idaho.  
After high school, he attended Idaho Southern College in Pocatello on an athletic scholarship. With the outbreak of WWII, he enlisted in the Navy Reserve V5 Flight Training program. However, he was discharged due to a sinus infection. In spite of this setback, coupled with his desire to serve his country, he volunteered for the Army Air Corp. He trained in electronics, radio, and air gunnery techniques and was assigned as a radio gunner on B-25 Bombers. Due to his physical and leadership attributes, the Air Force reassigned him to Tydall Field in Florida as a Parachute Landing and Physical Training Instructor. While there he participated on the General's Football Team at Maxwell Field Alabama. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1945.   
He returned home and enrolled at Utah State Agricultural College (now USU). He was a valuable member of the USU Basketball and Football teams. He was also active in student government. He married his sweetheart, Lois Fryer, in the LDS Logan Temple in 1948. Following graduation, he taught and successfully coached at various high schools in Idaho and Utah. His Preston Idaho basketball teams were state runner-up two years in a row. In 1956 he was given the opportunity to return and coach at USU. He worked with Cecil Baker, John Ralston and LaDell Anderson. He was a demanding coach, yet earned the respect of his players and associates because of his focus on excellence. In 1966 he became USU's Director of Administrative Student Services. He remained in that position until his retirement in 1987.   
In spite of his persona as a demanding coach, Ev was a deeply spiritual man. He loved the Savior and served faithfully for many years in various LDS church callings. He particularly loved young people. He served as Bishop in a USU singles ward as well other leadership positions.  
His pride and joy was his family. His special companion, Lois, was the love of his life. He protected his family and taught them principles of hard work, honesty, self-reliance and service. The ranch at Bear Lake was his solace. He loved the calm and contentment that this special place provided. 
Evan was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Rao. His brother Newell (Garnet) resides in Lovell, Wyoming. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lois, and children, Craig (Eileen), Brad (Lauri) and Jean (Kent) Tingey, 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
The family especially thanks all who have so graciously given of their time and support in helping Lois care for Ev these past few years.   
In lieu of flowers, please donate to: the LDS Perpetual Education Fund.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 at 11 a.m. in the Logan 19th Ward chapel, 600 E. 1200 North.  
There will be a viewing Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm at the Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 East Center St., Logan, and at the church on Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.  
Interment at Logan Cemetery with Military Honors and a Tribute by the Sigma Chi.
Online condolences may be left at www.allenmortuaries.net.