Norm Duane Evans, 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 16, 2026, leaving behind a life defined not by titles, accomplishments, or awards, but by his tireless work ethic, quiet strength, kindness, gentleness, and a deep care and commitment to others.

A funeral service will be 11:00 AM, Monday, January 26, 2026, at Evangel Church, 3220 N 19th St, Bismarck, ND.

Visitation will be from 2:00 - 3:00 PM, Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, ND. Sharing of memories will begin at 3:00 PM.

Burial will be at 3:00 PM, Monday at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND.

Norm was born on February 12, 1938, in Jamestown, North Dakota, to Guy and Elsie (Berndt) Braa. As a young boy, he grew up in Jamestown, Courtney, and Dazey, learning early the values of hard work, humility, and treating people with respect. He graduated from Valley City High School in 1956, earning letters in basketball, football, and track.

In the fall of 1956, Norm enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He carried the discipline and sense of service he learned there throughout his life. After his service, he worked in California before returning to North Dakota, where he became a heavy equipment operator for Barnes County. In 1966, he began a career with the North Dakota Highway Patrol—a path that allowed him to live out his calling to protect, serve, and care for people.

Norm rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Colonel and being appointed Superintendent of the Highway Patrol in 1981. But to those who knew him, his true leadership showed in how he treated people—with patience, fairness, and a listening heart. As a past colleague once said, “Norm taught community policing before it even had a name”. He worked diligently to make the Patrol better, helping create the RAID (Removing Alcohol Impaired Drivers) Program and improving retirement protections for officers.

His love of learning never stopped—he earned degrees from Bismarck State College, the University of Mary, Northwestern University, and completed graduate work at UND. He also attended countless military and civilian training programs including Hazardous Devices & Homemade Bombs Training, Civil Disturbance School, and the Terrorism & Hostage Negotiation Training to name a few. Norm retired from the Patrol in May of 1990 with honor and distinction.

Norm built a second career as a private investigator and accident reconstructionist, founding his firm Evans Investigation. He was trusted as an expert across several states and the Canadian government until his retirement in 2012. He also gave generously of his time through service on many boards and organizations.

Though he received many honors, including the Governor’s Life Saving Award, the North Dakota Heritage Award, and the Lone Eagle Award, Norm never sought recognition. What mattered most to him were people - his family, his friends, and anyone who crossed his path.

Norm cherished time with family and friends at their Lake Isabel cabin, which he built and lovingly maintained for 34 years. One of his other passions was restoring vehicles—working side by side with each of his children to restore a vehicle for them. During his retirement years, he enjoyed spending time with his coffee and card groups.

Norm was known for his readiness to always lend a hand without a second thought – a true embodiment of kindness. Whenever someone was in need, he stepped in without hesitation, reflecting the warmth of his generous spirit.

From 2008 until his journey to Heaven, Norm faced cancer with courage and peace. His deep and unwavering faith carried him through, and he trusted fully in God’s promises.

Norm is survived by his beloved wife, Jan, of 42 years; sons Mike and Joshua (Brooke Tollefsrud); daughters Vickie (Brian) Volk and Dawn (David) Hagerott; stepdaughters Laura Bronson, Brenda Gulbrandson, and Julie Fannin; 19 grandchildren and 21 great- grandchildren, all of whom carry pieces of his kindness within them.

He was preceded in death by his sons Dan and Steve; his parents Guy and Elsie; and his sisters Doris Dibley, Betty Liljenquist, Carol Sortland and Vickie and Dawns mother, Mary Werre. 

Norm’s life was a quiet testimony of love in action. He showed us that greatness is not found in power or praise, but in gentleness, service, faith, and a heart that truly cares for others. His legacy lives on in every life he touched.