Evan Breyman Boise

SALEM -  Evan Breyman Boise one of Salem's leading citizens and businessmen, died peacefully in his sleep in the early morning of February 14, 2008. He was 81.Evan was born on June 21, 1926 in the library of his grandmother's home on Court Street in downtown Salem, to Reuben and Lucile Boise.  He was graduated from Salem High School and later from the University of Oregon where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.Evan began work after college at U.S. Bank in Portland where he met his then future wife, Janet H. Bozorth. They married on January 16, 1954 and then moved to Salem where Evan began his career as a real estate appraiser and property manager. Evan was a civic leader in Salem, committing himself throughout this lifetime to the health and viality of the Salem community. He and his good friend William G. Paulus, a well regarded Salem attorney, championed urban renewal and were instrumental in obtaining federal funding to transform the core of downtown Salem. Due to their efforts in part, the downtown area was expanded to include the civic center.A long standing member of the Salem Downtown Association, including a term as president, Evan continued to advocate for a vital business presence in the city center, which resulted in construction of the sky bridges and eventually the development of the Riverfront area. His membership in the Salem Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, and Waterfront Committee reflected his constand commitment to the betterment of the city he loved.Evan was descended from one of Oregon's first pioneering families. His great-grandfather Reuben P. Boise came to what was then a territory of the United States and settled the town of Ellendale, which he named after his wife. Reuben was eventually named to the first Oregon Supreme Court.  Evan's great uncle, Charles L. McNary was a long time United States senator of Oregon and running mate of presidential canidate Wendell Wilke.  Evan was with his uncle at the McNary farm when he conceded the presidential race.Bon with a beautiful voice, Evan love to sing and was the leader of the Tillamookcounty Marching Band ever Forth of July at Neskowin Beach. He was an avid skier, tennis player, golfer and river rafter. He loved books. But mostly, he loved limericks.Evan was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Reuben Eugene Boise. He is survived by his wife, Janet; and his sons, Reuben and Whitney; and the grandchildren he truly adored, Marija, Samantha, Lucile, Carly and Reuben Tucker. Contributions may be made to the Special Olympics and the Salvation Army Kroc Center.