Edward Steptoe "Ned" Evans III

Edward "Ned" Steptoe Evans III, of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, and Ocean Ridge, Florida, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, sportsman, and business executive, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025.

Born on May 12, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, to Edward S. Evans Jr. and Florence Allington Evans, Ned grew up in Grosse Pointe. He graduated from Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Industrial & Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan. There, he formed lifelong friendships, joined the Psi Upsilon fraternity, tended goal for the varsity hockey team, and met the love of his life, Laura Ridder.

Ned is survived by Laura, his beloved wife of 64 years, and their four children and spouses: Jody and Jeff Reilly, Wendy and David Murphy, Laurie and John Bond, and Ted and Doreen Evans. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Laura and Jane Murphy; Johnny, Caroline (Lewers), and Leila Bond; and Teddy, Will, and Robby Evans. He is also survived by his brother, John D. Evans, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Virginia Evans Carlin.

Ned's distinguished career spanned multiple industries, including technology, manufacturing, construction, and environmental services where he was recognized for his leadership, strategic insight, and ability to guide organizations through growth and transformation. He began at Evans Products, managing the introduction of a railcar cushion underframe, then moved to Emhart Corporation (later acquired by Black & Decker), a major automotive supplier. He went on to Ralph C. Wilson Industries, overseeing a construction company, a Tier 1 auto supplier, and an oilfield services business, and concluded his professional journey at General Dynamics, a leading aerospace and defense company.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ned's life was defined by his warmth, humor, and love for family and friends. His quick wit, bright smile, and kind spirit lifted those around him. He found joy in fly fishing, chasing mahi, and cheering for the Michigan Wolverines. A lover of the outdoors, music, and family adventures, Ned especially cherished time spent around the piano often leading spirited sing-alongs of "Roll Out the Barrel" while loved ones danced and sang along. A lifelong music enthusiast, he played upright bass in his college band and carried his love for melody through his life.

Ned also gave generously of his time and expertise, serving on corporate and nonprofit boards, including the Grosse Pointe Academy and the Detroit Institute for Children. He was a member of the Country Club of Detroit and the Yondotega Club, and a former member of the Fontinalis Club in Vanderbilt, Michigan, and Club Limited. In Florida, he was a past president of the Ocean Club of Florida, as well as a member of The Little Club and The Society of the Four Arts.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 am at Christ Church Grosse Pointe, 61 Grosse Pointe Boulevard, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.

Those wishing to honor Ned's memory may do so through contributions to the Parkinson's & Movement Disorders Discovery Fund at the University of Michigan, Michigan Medicine Development, 777 E. Eisenhower Pkwy, Suite 650, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.