Michael E. “Mike” Evans, former longtime La Grande resident, died on Aug. 30, 2026 at his home in Stanfield at the age of 80.
He was born on June 11, 1946 in La Grande to George and Virginia Courtney Evans.
Mike graduated from high school and joined the United States Navy in 1964. He served on the USS Abnaki as a diesel mechanic, where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Metal and a Bronze Star. Mike was honorably discharged in 1967 and returned to La Grande. He was united in marriage to Raelene “Rae” Wise on June 14, 1965 in Weiser, Idaho.
Mike worked at Bordan Chemical in La Grande from 1971 until retiring in 2003 as a chemical plant foreman. He moved to Stanfield in 2021 to be closer to his family. He had served as exalted ruler of the La Grande Elks Lodge, as well as past commander of the VFW and American Legion posts. Mike was an ordained pastor and he was proud to have officiated the marriage of his daughter, Lindsey and his grandchildren. He loved classic cars, Harleys, NASCAR, WWE, and most of all time with his family.
Mike was preceded in death by his wife Rae, his parents and a granddaughter, Miranda.
At his request, there will be no service.
Please share memories of Mike with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
