Evelyn June Sage

Evelyn June (Ruzick) Sage passed away peacefully in her home on November 7th, 2025, at the incredible age of 96. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends in the days leading up to her passing. She is now reunited with her late husband, Bill Sage, and her late son, Stirling Sage.

Evelyn was born in Lead, South Dakota on February 24, 1929. She was one of ten children born to Mary and Walter Ruzick. Her childhood was spent in Lead, and graduated from Lead High School. She received her bachelors degree from Black Hills State University (formerly known as Black Hills Teachers College) and moved to Pasco, WA to teach art at Pasco Jr. High for 13 years. Evelyn and Bill married in 1963 and soon after moved to Oakland, CA for a short 2-year stay while Bill completed graduate schooling. They then moved to Cheney, WA in the late 1960’s, where they bought land and built a home. Evelyn and Bill welcomed their only son, Stirling, in 1968.

Evelyn went on to teach art with Bill at Eastern Washington University for many, many years, making a large impact on the art community in Cheney. She endured multiple battles with cancer and an autoimmune disease that was always faced with immense determination and positivity. Evelyn was charismatic and never met a stranger. She was loved and adored by so many, and she will be deeply missed.

Evelyn is survived by her grandsons Daric (Kristi) and Sean (Savannah), as well as two great grandchildren, Jensen and Parker Sage.

Evelyn’s life will be celebrated in the spring of 2026 and will be announced once details are finalized.