Thomas Schaefer Evans

Thomas "Tom" Schaefer Evans entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 16, 2026. He was welcomed into heaven and joyfully reunited with his beloved wife of 52 years, Yolanda Evans, along with many loved ones who went before him.

Tom was born on July 2, 1949, in Bronxville, New York, the fourth child of Benjamin Franklin Evans Jr. and Alice Leonard Evans. When he was two years old, his family moved across the country to Southern California, settling in North Hollywood in the summer of 1951. It was there, growing up just down the street from Universal Studios, that Tom developed a lifelong sense of curiosity, joy, and appreciation for the world God created. He always shared fond memories of his childhood and the adventures he had.

Tom had a love for music, especially the trumpet. As a member of the Robin Hood Band, he had the privilege of marching in the Rose Parade, using his God-given talent to bring joy to others.

Tom attended Hollywood High School, where God placed in his life the love of his heart, Yolanda. They were married on January 3, 1969, beginning a marriage rooted in faith, family, and love. They raised two children, Robert and Janet, who were a joy to both of them.

In 1972, Tom moved his family to Eureka, California, to pursue a degree in Natural Resources. He achieved this goal in 1974, graduating from Humboldt State University. His love for nature and commitment to preserving wildlife led him to a fulfilling career as a California State Park Ranger/Peace Officer beginning in 1975 when he and the family moved to Oxnard. He spent most of his 30-year career at Point Mugu State Park, where he patrolled Pacific Coast Highway from Mugu Rock down into Malibu. Tom enjoyed his work-caring for the land entrusted to him and teaching others to respect and preserve its beauty. He enjoyed leading nature walks, tide pool explorations, campfire programs, and sharing the history of the parks. A teacher at heart, he found joy in sharing knowledge and inspiring appreciation for the outdoors. He retired from the California Department of Parks and Recreation in December 2004.

Retirement did not slow Tom down. Shortly afterward, he continued serving others through substitute teaching in the Oxnard, Hueneme, and El Rio School Districts, a role he fulfilled for 17 years. His family fondly referred to him as the "#1 sub in Oxnard". Tom viewed teaching as another opportunity to encourage, guide, and uplift the next generation.

Outside of work, Tom had other interests as well. He was a lifelong baseball fan and loved the New York Yankees. He shared his love for the game by teaching his children to play and appreciate it as well. He played recreational softball for many seasons alongside his adult children and their friends, where he earned the nickname "Chevy" because he was solid, "Like a Rock", on the field. You could always count on him to get on base. Tom even went on to play in the Senior Softball World Series in Arizona and Nevada. Off the field, he enjoyed singing in the annual production of "The Living Christmas Tree" program for ten years. He also had a sweet tooth and enjoyed the simple pleasure of eating ice cream-you could often find him at the Mister Softee truck when it came down his street. But above all, Tom loved spending time with his family, especially his four grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

He was a longtime resident of Oxnard, California, where he lived with his family for 50 years. Tom was a kind, patient, and gentle soul who never spoke a negative word about anyone. He consistently chose to be optimistic and had a way of making people's hearts smile simply by being himself. His life stands as a testimony to faith, service, humility, and love-and his legacy will continue until that glorious day when all believers are reunited again in Christ.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Franklin Evans Jr.; his mother, Alice Evans; his brothers, Royal Evans and Frank Evans; and his beloved wife, Yolanda Evans. He is survived by his children, Robert Evans (wife Kelly) of Oxnard and Janet Evans of Oxnard; his grandchildren, Ashley, Hope, Faith, and Christian Evans; his sister, Gail Cassée; and many nieces and nephews.

While his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life, knowing that Tom is now fully restored and at peace-reunited with those he loved and welcomed into the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

Celebration of Life service will be held February 12th at 12:00p.m.

Viewing from 11:30-12:00; burial and reception immediately following service

Chapel of the Hills-Conejo Mountain Memorial Park

2052 Howard Road, Camarillo, CA 93012

All family and friends are welcome

The family is under the care of Alison Balding, Funeral Arranger