Arlene Frances Evarts

Arlene (Stewart) Evarts, a 40-year resident of Edmonds, Washington, was born on March 11, 1933. She was the daughter of Edna (Wilke) Simon and John LaVerne Stewart. Arlene was born and grew up in Ballard, and was also raised by her stepfather Arthur Simon. She graduated from Ballard High School in 1951 and moved to Pasadena, California, living with her aunt and grandmother to attend college. She later returned to Seattle and eloped with the love of her life and high school sweetheart Merton Evarts, in 1953. They eventually settled down in Shoreline, WA and raised four beautiful children that eventually resulted in 18 descendants.

Arlene was a very strong, humble, generous mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. Friends and family often sought her advice, knowing her guidance would be practical and honest. Her generosity extended beyond her family; she was always the first to lend a helping hand. Arlene especially enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren thrive in life, whether it was birthdays, dance recitals, sport events, graduations, weddings, shopping or the birth of a grandchild. She was always so proud of each one and it showed in her smile when she spoke of them. All the family pets also loved her, especially Daisy Mae, her little shadow.

Being a daughter of a former sewist, Arlene had a knack with combining texture, patterns, and color. She loved and appreciated handmade crafts, arts and fine art. She made clothing and costumes for the kids and could always be found making something special for someone else. Doing for others was her happy place, which is likely how everything appeared effortless, including her unmatched fresh baked pies and cookies.

Arlene often spent time in Phoenix, Arizona attending Cowboy Artists Association and various philanthropic events. She always looked forward to going on trips with her aunt and sister where they would visit artists homes and galleries with the Western Art Groups. She also had a vast knowledge of collectables and antiques and enjoyed walking through antique shops finding rare gems with family and friends.

Throughout her life, Arlene remained committed to her family by providing a space where her children and grandchildren would continue creating memories at the family cabin east of the mountains. In the end, Arlene loved nothing more than her family and dedicated her life to ensuring they would be taken care of in the future.

On July 3, 2025 Arlene passed peacefully with loved ones by her side. She was preceded in death by her husband, Merton, in 1980. Arlene leaves a legacy of four children: Kristine Martin (Christopher), Linda Larson (Kurt), Steve Evarts (Julie), and Pamela Evarts (Becky), and seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and her sister Sandra Strandlund (Jerry).

The Family extends their love and gratitude to Dali and her family, Juanita, Dawn, and Donna. Thank you will never be enough.

A Celebration of Life is planned for family and friends to be announced soon.

Contributions can be made to:

Alzheimer’s Association, Washington State Chapter, 19031 33rd Ave. W. #301, Lynnwood, WA 98036 or https://www.alz.org/alzwa

Ballard High School, The Golden Beavers Scholarships Program, P.O. Box 17626, Seattle, WA 98127 or https://ballardhighschoolfoundation.org/programs/ballard-high-school-foundation-golden-beavers/