Richard F. Evans

Father, Farmer, Husband, Hunter, Wine Maker, Woodsman, Orioles and Steelers Fan, Community Volunteer and History Buff….

Richard F. (Rick) Evans, age 62, passed away September 8, 2022, after living life to its fullest! For 30 years, Rick was the winemaker at Castel Grisch Winery located in Watkins Glen, NY. In 2018, he was diagnosed with brain cancer and in 2021, suffered a traumatic accident leaving him with a brain injury and many physical challenges. Regardless, you could always find Rick ready to tell you his latest story and share the smile in his heart.

Rick was predeceased by his stepfather, Clarence “Sheik” Spaulding (2002) and brother, Robert Scott Evans (1991). He is survived by his wife and best friend, Lydia Wickham, Burdett, NY; children Ryan Evans of Watkins Glen, NY; Conner Evans (Jaimie and granddaughter Darby) of Burdett, NY; Ezra Evans of Burdett, NY; mother, Maxine Spaulding of Montour Falls, NY; father, Robert (Carol) Evans of Sebring, Fl; sister, Sharon Maximiek (Gino DePasquale) of Rochester, NY; sister, Sarah (Kevin) Kline of Horseheads, NY; brother, Kristopher "Kasey" (Danielle) Evans of Savona, NY. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and his “Wickham siblings,” Judy, Will, Fred, Lindsay, and Chris and their families.

Rick believed in community, service to that community, and connecting to people through time well spent in nature, with family and friends, and helping and doing deeds for others. He believed our world could improve if everyone simply dedicated a little bit of their time towards the common good.

Rick was active in and a founding member of the Hector-Area Lions Club. He was a member of Hector Presbyterian Church and built amazing VBS floats for the Hector Fair Parade circa 2004-2010, and recently served as Co-Chairperson for the United Way of Schuyler County. For over 20 years, Rick was a boy scout volunteer most recently serving as the Scoutmaster for Troop 2674 based in Watkins Glen, NY, and a member of the Five Rivers Council Executive Committee.

He loved spending time in the woods, on campouts, and adventuring with his scouts. Each eve, on these special occasions, as the sun set and the American flag was lowered, Rick, and these young men, would take the time to remember the beauty, fun, and lessons of the day while they sang, “Day is done, gone the sun from the lakes, from the hills, from the sky. All is well. Safely rest. God is nigh!” Rest in peace, Mr. Evans.

A private service will be held at the family’s convenience. At the request of Rick, a gathering of laughter, love, music, and memories will be held at Solera Tap House, Burdett NY, on Sunday, October 2nd, from 2P to 7P. In lieu of flowers and in Rick’s memory, donations may be made to BSA Five Rivers Council for Camp Gorton or Empire State Special Needs Experience for Camp Badger.

Five Rivers Council - Memorials & Tributes (scoutingevent.com)
How To Help - LIONS CAMP BADGER (lionscb.org)

Arrangements with Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.