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In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.

Honoring the Legacy of Dr. James Evans

A lifelong resident of Rapid City, Dr. James “Pev” Evans was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, and a visionary in orthodontics. In 1969, he founded Evans Orthodontics with the goal of bringing compassionate, expert care to his hometown. His life was marked by a commitment to excellence, both in his practice and as a mentor and friend to countless young athletes and community members.

Through his work, he shaped not only beautiful smiles but also lasting relationships with patients and colleagues. This page is dedicated to celebrating a remarkable man whose legacy continues to inspire and shape our community.

Memorial Page

1933-2023

Gallery of Memories

In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans Family at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.
In Memory Dr. James Evans at Evans Orthodontics in Rapid, City, SD.

Legacy & Impact

Pev Evans Scholarship

Established in 1987, this prestigious award is presented annually to one 8th-grade male and female student from 22 area middle schools, spanning from Philip, SD, to Wright, WY. To date, it has provided over $85,000 in free orthodontic care to deserving students.

South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame

Inducted in 2013 in recognition of his lasting contributions to athletics and community mentorship

Expansion of Orthodontic Care

In the 1980s, Dr. Evans developed 12 satellite offices across South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming, greatly increasing access to orthodontic care throughout the region.

Global Educator and Innovator

Dr. Evans shared his expertise worldwide, lecturing across the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia, and New Zealand, and building a reputation for his innovative orthodontic techniques. More than 300 orthodontists traveled to Rapid City to learn from his pioneering methods.

Dedicated Coach

Coached with the American Legion Post 22 baseball program for 44 seasons, leading the team to 18 consecutive state titles and a national title in 1993. Additionally, he coached football at South Dakota School of Mines and Black Hills State.

Champion of the Black Hills

Dr. Evans had a deep love for the Black Hills and his hometown of Rapid City. He served on the board of Terry Peak, helping to develop it into a thriving ski resort that would become a cornerstone for local recreation.

Beloved Community Partner

Known for his humor and warmth, Dr. Evans regularly visited partner dental offices, delivering “broccoli”—his playful nickname for ice cream and cookies. These visits strengthened relationships and became a cherished tradition that he continued for years.

A Legacy of Care

Dr. Evans practiced orthodontics for over 50 years, treating tens of thousands of patients, including family members of over 100 area dentists. His influence and dedication to his craft left an enduring impact on the community.

Celebration of Life Speeches

Timeline

1933

Born in Rapid City, South Dakota, as a fourth-generation Black Hills resident.

1951

Graduated from Rapid City High School, excelling in athletics.

1956

Graduated from the University of Nebraska, where he played football for four years, including an appearance in the 1956 Orange Bowl. That same year, he returned to Rapid City to teach in the public school system and began coaching American Legion Post 22 baseball, ultimately coaching for 44 seasons.

1960

Moved to Chicago to attend dental school at Loyola University. He was accepted into Loyola's orthodontic residency program in 1964.

1969

Returned to Rapid City and founded Evans Orthodontics, bringing his passion for community-focused orthodontic care.

1991

Dr. Bruce Evans joined Evans Orthodontics.

2001

Dr. Brad Evans joined Evans Orthodontics.

2013

Inducted into the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sports community as both an athlete and a coach.

2023

Passed away at age 90, leaving a lasting legacy in his community and the orthodontic practice he founded.

Story Submission Form

We invite you to share your favorite memories, stories, or words about him, as we honor his legacy and celebrate the impact he had on all of us. Whether it’s a moment on the field, a smile shared at the practice, or a story of his generosity, we’d love to hear from you. Thank you for helping us keep his spirit alive through your memories.

Memories

Quotes & Testimonies

“Dr. E was my boss, friend, and confidant for 43 years. I do not know anyone (other than my Dad) whom I admired more. I am going to miss him so much. What a giving man he was in so many ways I can’t even count. A brilliant man when it came to orthodontics, far ahead of his time and always willing to teach others in his profession…”

— Julee S.
“…I am so blessed to have known him. He taught me so much and really shaped me in ways that I will never forget. What an incredible man.”
— Karen P.
“As a patient, I remember Dr. Evans always making jokes to make the appointment a better experience, I always looked forward to them. As an employee, Big E had an amazing way of treating his staff like family and pushing them to be their best. Always generous, compassionate, and full of joy…an amazing human, what an incredible legacy he has left!”
— Lisa P.
“Still struggling with the words to express my feelings and thoughts for 75+ years of knowing this man…my hero, mentor, teacher, surrogate father, friend, influencer. His physical person is gone, but he will live within me, and be part of me for all of eternity.”
— Bob S.
“He was so good at loving people. I never told him, but I’ve modeled much of my life and practice on the way he treated me and seemingly everyone else he came into contact with…”
— Dr. Michael Krump
“He was my idol and what brought me into dentistry. Loved him so much and forever grateful for him!”
— Sami W.
“A teacher 1st as well as a smile maker! He will be remembered for the goodness of his heart, and clarity of his soul.”
— Philip M.
“He taught me so many lessons about ortho and life!! I am forever thankful!!”
— Holly N.
“One of the greatest and most generous souls I’ve ever met. I loved Pev and was so thankful I got to know him while I played Post 22.”
— Randy S.
“It is a blessing to all Pev was able to share his kindness and generosity for 90 years!”
— Ken S.

“Pev was a great dentist and good friend to many.”

— Carolyn F.
“Dr. Evans did my girls’ braces. He was always so kind to us. Also made sure we parents knew just what was going on.”
— Don & Pat W.
“Pev was a fine man, always a great attitude, fine coach and will be missed by all who knew him…”
— Thomas F.
“It was so much more than just straightening teeth for him. Dr. Evans had so much fun with his patients; tying shoes together, water fights with the water dispenser…he was so kind and helped so many patients with their self-confidence.”
— Luanne M.

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Are you looking for an orthodontist near me in Rapid City, SD? Orthodontists Dr. Bruce Evans and Dr. Brad Evans specialize in orthodontic treatment, which includes early orthodontic treatment for children, orthodontic treatment for teens, and adult orthodontics with braces. When considering the cost of braces, and the time it takes to create your new smile, your choice of treatment provider matters.

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