Dolores "Tish" Dawn (Witt) Evans

This page was created, in honor of Tish, to help establish a Scholarship fund for graduates of Saint Thomas More High School, Rapid City, who plan to attend college and study Fine Arts. As you will read below, Tish loved theater, dance, and other forms of fine arts. The Evans family could not have created a better way to celebrate Tish's life than to develop a Scholarship fund to carry on her love of the arts for years to come.

A little more about Tish – Dolores "Tish" Dawn (Witt) Evans, affectionately known as Tish, was born on September 25, 1943, to Fern and Fred Witt in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She was the youngest of three girls and grew up in Sioux Falls, where she graduated from Washington High School. During her high school years, Tish showcased her talent as a baton twirler for the high school band. Following her graduation, Tish pursued further education, attending night school while also working as a dance instructor at the Arthur Murray Dance Academy.

On April 11, 1965, Tish married the love of her life, Harry Evans Jr., at St. Mary Catholic Church in Dell Rapids, South Dakota. Transitioning from city life to farm life, Tish embraced her role as a farmer's wife alongside Harry, who worked on a farm east of Dell Rapids. Together, they built a loving home and raised three children: Dean Evans, Nikki (Evans) Wojcik, and Tracy (Evans) Stamper.

They also shared the joy of welcoming four grandchildren into their lives: Ashley Wojcik, Ryan Wojcik, Charli Stamper, and Carter Stamper. Tish loved to travel and watch her grandchildren as they participated in a variety of activities from Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Basketball, Golf, Soccer, Oral Interp, and Cheerleading. The only other team she enjoyed more than those her grandchildren were on was the Minnesota Timberwolves!

Tish was known for her strong faith and spiritual devotion. While she was raised in the Lutheran tradition, Tish embraced Catholicism after her marriage to Harry and dedicated herself to raising her family within the Catholic religion. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength, guidance, and comfort through every joy and challenge.

Her compassionate nature extended beyond her family, as Dolores selflessly served her community for over 30 years as a caregiver at the Dell Rapids Hospital. Her unwavering commitment to caring for others touched the lives of countless individuals and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered.

Throughout her life, Tish dedicated herself to serving others and enriching her community. For seven years, she passionately served as a theater leader and volunteer at St. Mary High School in Dell Rapids leaving a lasting impact on the students she mentored. Tish and her daughters belonged to a horse drill team where they performed at local rodeos and in parades together and fostered several long-lasting friendships. Additionally, Tish was an integral member of the Old Opera House Players, where her creative talents flourished on stage and behind the scenes. Tish continued these talents when Harry and Tish relocated to Rapid City. South Dakota in 2003 where she became a member of the Well Done Players. Tish cherished her friendships with the Well Done Players and the theater productions they performed together.

Beyond her theatrical endeavors, Tish was renowned for her culinary skills, delighting family and friends with her delicious creations as a baker specializing in lefsa, bread, and pies. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and comfort, where love was expressed through every dish she prepared.

Tish was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Fern Witt; her devoted father, Fred Witt; and her cherished sister, Audry Witt. She is survived by her dear sister, Shelly Mandel.

Tish will be remembered for her gentle determination, selfless nature, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her presence brought calm and comfort to those around her, and her classy demeanor and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Tish's unwavering faith, gracious spirit, and unconditional love will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.