Evan Van Klett

Evan Van Klett of Epps, Louisiana, passed away in Rayville, Louisiana, on Monday, February 17, 2025 after a brief illness. Born on May 9, 1935 in Menard, Texas, Van worked in various locations throughout our country as a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Manager finally retiring from the Alaska Maritime NWR Aleutian Islands Unit where he had served from 1982-1994.
A man of varied interests and talents, Van was a lifetime member of the National Wildlife Federation and the National Rifle Association (NRA). He collected rocks and minerals, reportedly turning some of his findings into handmade jewelry. He and his wife, Jessie Lee Hillman, whom he married on August 11, 1973, shared an interest in archaeology and enjoyed traveling to various locations of archaeological interest. Very civic minded, they funded scholarships for students while in Alaska and actively participated in local organizations wherever they lived.
A patient man, Van took care of the family pets and showed their purebred Corgis in various dog shows around the country before ill health necessitated a change of residence for him to Rayville Nursing Home where the staff lovingly cared for him until his passing from this life in February.
Van is preceded in death by his parents Lula Mae (New) Klett and Charles Cecil Klett; a brother Stanley Horace Klett of Abilene, Texas; and his wife of nearly 4 7 years, Jessie Lee Klett. Though Van had no children of his own, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews as well as other family members who fondly cherish their memories of Uncle Van.
Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Epps Community Cemetery in Epps, LA.
Arrangements will be handled by Cox Funeral Home of Delhi.