Evan Christopher Martin, age 54, of Maiden Rock, Wis., died unexpectedly of natural causes July 12, 2026. He was born in Tacoma, Wash. on July 23, 1971 to Vernon W. Martin Jr. and Wanda F. (Jacob) Martin, of Lancaster, Wis. (formerly of Maiden Rock, Wis. and Peoria Heights, Ill.)
Evan’s life was marked by the places he traveled and friendships he built. He had a lifelong curiosity about the world, a genuine interest in people and an adventurous spirit that fed his love for travel. In high school, he spent time living in Germany and completed his senior year in Johannesburg, South Africa. In 1990, He graduated from Ellsworth Senior High School in Ellsworth, Wis. He attended the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he studied geography.
He lived much of his adult life in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, where he was employed for many years in jobs that followed his interests in both aviation and overland travel. These included bike courier, over-the-road truck driver, and ground support and aircraft maintenance at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. He was an avid reader who developed a broad knowledge of the world and continued learning throughout his life. He had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed many outdoor pursuits.
He is survived by his parents. He is also survived by his sister, Alane (Brian) Wiegman of Peoria, Ill., his brother, Neil (Jennifer) Martin of Lancaster, Wis. and extended family, including nieces and nephews whom he loved and enjoyed. He also leaves behind a wide circle of cherished friends, both near and around the world.
Evan’s thoughtfulness and generous heart will be deeply missed.
In honor of the formative experiences and lifelong friendships Evan gained through the Red Wing Environment Learning Center, memorial gifts may be given at www.redwingelc.com.
A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held at a later date.
