John R. Evans, Jr., 63

May 2, 1958 - February 24, 2022

John (“Rod”, “Ev”) R Evans, Jr, 63, of Allentown, died unexpectedly the morning of February 24, 2022. Born in the Philadelphia area, he was the son of the late John and Helen (Lorenson) Evans, Sr. He is survived by his sister Kim Evans-Whitney of Lititz, PA.

John was most recently employed by Advanced Cleaning Solutions, LLC.

Growing up, John was part of the neighborhood gang of kids who enjoyed games of tag and baseball, riding bikes and making forts in the woods. He graduated from Boyertown Area High School in 1976 where he was a gifted athlete, winning numerous awards, participating in track, football and wrestling. He also played trumpet in the high school band and was a committed student, even studying the Russian language. During high school, John worked on several farms which contributed to an interest in agriculture. He earned a Bachelor of Science in General Agriculture from Penn State University while studying at the Mont Alto and Main campuses which led to work on a research project following his graduation in 1980. He enjoyed being part of a Main Campus Christian fellowship group, participating in a summer mission project in Galveston, TX.

During the majority of his life, John worked in manufacturing and construction. He also did some work in the human services field working with intellectually disabled adults. John had a strong work ethic throughout his life. No job was too menial for him if it allowed him to support himself and live independently.

While living in Allentown, John was involved with a number of different churches, most recently Faith Church. He also participated in the Depression Bipolar Support Group of the Lehigh Valley. John utilized numerous community resources to enrich his life. He enjoyed swimming, going out to eat and spending time in Cedar Creek Park.

In addition to his sister, John is survived by his brother-in-law Steve, his niece Erin and his nephew Chris, all of Lititz. He will be remembered for his presence at holiday gatherings, his tender heart and his generous spirit.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at New Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2941 Lutheran Road, Gilbertsville, PA on Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 11AM. Visitation with the family will be from 10:30-11AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s name can be made to either the Allentown Rescue Mission (355 Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101) or the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance of the Lehigh Valley (First Presbyterian Church, ATTN DBSA-LV, 3231 Tilghman Street, Allentown, PA 18104).