Howard E. Evans Sr., age 70 of Massillon, died Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at his home after a lengthy illness.

He was born January 23, 1941 in Terre Haute, Ind., the son of the late Rosa Lee and Ralph 'Smiley' Evans.

He served in the Navy on the USS Independence during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Howard was a career truck driver for 30 years. He was a coach for various youth sports for several years and an avid Massillon Tiger Fan. His goal in life was to put a smile on someone's face everyday.

Howard is survived by wife of 19 years, Patricia Evans; son and daughter-in-law, Howard Jr. and Julie Evans, step children, Scott and Leanna Wentzel; Ed and Toni Wentzel; Mark and Jackie Wentzel all of Massillon; Michelle and Chris Shane of Dalton; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandson. He will be greatly missed by all of his grandchildren of which he was so proud of all of them.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday, November 13 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Heitger Funeral Service - Massillon Chapel, 639 First St NE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Massillon Boys and Girls Club, 730 Duncan St Sw, Massillon, OH 44647.

Please leave condolences at www.heitger.com Heitger Funeral Service - MASSILLON CHAPEL 330-833-3248 Massillon's Oldest Family Owned Business