TOPEKA, KANSAS -  Richard A. Evans, 64 , of Topeka, passed away Friday, April 17, 2009 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka after battling pancreatic cancer.

He was born April 19, 1944 in Topeka, the son of John and Lula Evans.  Richard graduated from Highland Park High School in 1962 and attended Pittsburg State University, receiving his Bachelor's degree in 1967 and his Master's in 1968, both in Industrial Technology Education.

He taught woodworking at Topeka High School from 1969-1975.  From 1975-1979 he was the club manager and tennis professional at Wood Valley Racquet Club.  Richard joined the staff at Washburn Rural High School in 1979, teaching woodworking and driver's education until his retirement in 1999.  After retiring, he enjoyed doing home remodeling projects for people in the community and at home.

Richard married Edna Mae Benitz in 1966.  They had two sons, Michael and Matthew.  They later divorced.

He married Cindy Muir in 1990.  Richard is survived by his wife, Cindy, of the home; three sons, Michael of Topeka, Matthew and wife Tiffany of Omaha; and Alex, of the home.  His mother also survives, as well as two grandsons, Kyler and Drew; a sister, Carol Dohm and husband Lynis, of Greenville, North Carolina; a brother, Randy and wife Terri of Owasso, Oklahoma, and several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.  He was preceeded in death by his father.

Services were held at 10:00 a.m.Tuesday, April 21, at Countryside United Methodist Church.  Burial followed at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery.  Memorial contributions were made to Midland Hospice Care.