Charles R. Evans graduated from Bangor High School in 1956 and soon after served in the Armed Forces. After completing his tour of duty, Charlie attended WWTC to prepare for a career in the business world.

In 1968, Charlie purchased the John Deere Dealership in West Salem where he is currently president and co-owner with his wife, Marilyn. At that time the company had only three employees and recorded one hundred thousand dollars in annual sales. Through his hard work and dedication, the business currently has twenty-three employees and topped five million dollars in annual sales in 1989.

Despite having all the worries and time commitments that are associated with owning a business, Charlie has always given unselfishly by being involved in both community and church work. He taught Sunday school for many years and was a past parish council president and board member. Other activities include a member of the Greater La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce, La Crosse County Agricultural Society, Lion’s Club, and WWTC Diesel and Heavy Equipment Advisory Board.

In addition, Charlie’s commitment to area youth and the Boys and Girls Club is unparalleled. For years Charlie has been involved in the 4-H Program, Future Farmers of America. And the Logan High School Parent’s Organization. He has served on the Boys and Girls Club Executive Board since 1986. In 1984, he received the coveted Backer of the Year Award, given to a person who willingly gives his support to the entire Club and asks for nothing in return.

The success of many of the Club’s programs can be attributed to Charlie’s support. Each summer he supplies the Club with a vehicle which helps transport the many baseball and softball teams to games and practices. Also, he provides several vehicles for use at the Boys and Girls Club McDonald’s Basketball Tournaments. Charlies support is also displayed through volunteer hours generously donated by the entire Evan’s family at tournaments, chicken que’s, and the auction.

Charlie’s initial interest in the Club began with the involvement of his 3 children. Jolene works as an account executive in Milwaukee, John is a senior at Logan High School and a former Club Athlete of the year, Sara is a junior at Logan and is also a former Club Athlete of the Year.



The entire staff feels that the Club is a much better organization as a result of the friendship of Charlie Evans.