Erwin P. Evenson

Erwin Evenson, age 95, of Janesville, passed away Monday, January 5, 2026, at Milton Senior Living. He was born on June 30, 1930, in Bertha, Minnesota. He grew up in a proud Norwegian Lutheran family as the fourth of Emil and Doris Evenson’s ten children.

Erwin graduated from Stoughton HS and attended UW–Madison for a short time before being hired at Fisher Body in Janesville, beginning a long career with GM. In 1954 he married Lois Jeglum. It was easy to see why they found each other—Lois also came from a proud Norwegian Lutheran family of ten. Together they raised two children, Steven and Cathy.

Erwin truly enjoyed his years at GM, where he worked his way up to Superintendent of the Body Shop. His co-workers became some of his closest friends. At work he earned the nickname “Sam,” and many people knew him only by that name. He retired from the GM Lake Orion plant in Michigan.

Erwin and Lois were devoted, charter members of Faith Lutheran Church. In retirement, Erwin remained active at the church, serving as an usher and as the custodian for several years. Gardening was one of his greatest passions, and in earlier years he also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Erwin was a prolific storyteller—some stories true, some not so much—with favorites that often involved humorous shenanigans from his childhood or at GM.

Erwin is survived by his daughter, Cathy Jennings (Jim) of Janesville; grandchildren Laura (Casey) Murray, Joseph (Jessica) Jennings, Sarah (Corey) Evenson, Brian Evenson, and Isaac Evenson; several great-grandchildren; siblings Marian Cunnington, Donald Evenson, Karen Eastlund, and Eric Evenson; along with in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lois, and his son, Steven.

Funeral services will be held at FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH, 2116 Mineral Point Avenue, Janesville on Wednesday, January 14th, Visitation at 10 AM, Funeral at 11 AM followed by a luncheon. Private entombment at Milton Lawns Memorial Park Mausoleum. Special thanks to Milton Senior Living and Agrace Hospice. Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church. The family is being assisted by HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME. Online condolences are welcome at www.henkeclarson.com.