Thomas O. Evans

Thomas O. Evans, age 67, a lifelong resident of Chesterton, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Tom was born on September 30, 1958, in Valparaiso, Indiana, to Donald H. and Loneta S. (Edmonds) Evans.

Tom was married to his loving wife, Angie (Roths) Evans, for 25 years. He is survived by Angie; his beloved children, Jillian (Carlos Leon Jr.) Evans, Myles (Abby) Evans, Garrett Evans, and Cassie (Austin) Parker; his siblings-and closest friends-John (Laurie) Evans, Doneta Evans, and Mary Ann Stueber; and his grandchildren, who were truly his pride and joy, Olivia and Owen Evans, Bayne Leon and Carlos Leon III. He is also survived by his former wife, Patty Thorstad Zosso; many special nieces and nephews, including; Tony (Lois) Evans, Sherry Ann, Jennifer and Brenda as well as many great nieces and nephews, beloved in-laws and good friends who were like family to him. Tom was especially fond of his grand-dogs, Duncan, Kali, Bucky, and Princess Leia. He was preceded in death by his faithful companion and sidekick, Tazzyboy; his parents, Donald and Loneta Evans; his mother-in-law, Shirley Kosmatka; his brother, Carl Evans; his sister, Helen Young; his brother-in-law, Don Stueber; and his nephew, Brian.

Tom worked at Bethlehem Steel, now Cleveland-Cliffs, beginning in 1977, where he built a career spanning decades and formed many lifelong friendships. He also worked alongside his brother John and sister Mary Ann, as well as all of his children at one time or another, in various roles within the family business, Edmonds & Evans Funeral Homes. Through his work, Tom was known for his kindness, compassion, and willingness to help anyone in need.

A true "go-getter," Tom was rarely still. Whether working double shifts, his second job, or lending a hand to friends and family, he was always busy helping others. From moving nieces, more times than anyone could count, to lifting the hood of a car to figure out "that noise," Tom was the person you could always rely on. One of his favorite winter pastimes was plowing snow, often at all hours of the day and night, making sure others could safely go about their lives. No matter the need, Tom showed up.

Tom enjoyed camping with his wife and children, riding his Harley, and cheering on his favorite teams, the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago White Sox. A devoted football fan, he could often be found proudly wearing his Packers T-shirts or jerseys. Above all else, Tom treasured his family. He loved his wife deeply and took immense pride in his children and grandchildren. He wanted to be present for every event, every game, and every school function. His joy was unmistakable; whether watching Olivia graduate, seeing Owen crack a bat, cheering as Bayne kicked a soccer ball, or celebrating when Carlos III made a great play in football. Simply being with his family filled his heart.

While no one is perfect, and Tom had his good and difficult days like anyone else, he passed along his best qualities; his kindness, loyalty, and selflessness, to his children. He leaves behind a lasting legacy, one that lives on in the gentle hearts of his family and in the countless lives he touched through his quiet acts of service.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Edmonds and Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials in Tom's name may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.