Evan Vervick

Evan K. Vervick quietly passed away at his home in Fairfield, MT on May 3, 2025. Evan was born August 19, 1951, in Great Falls, MT to Bert and Cora Vervick. He grew up on the Vervick family homestead on the Fairfield Bench, where he learned the values of hard work, faith, and determination. As a full-blooded Norwegian, traditions were a vital part of his childhood, and he carried a love of lutefisk and lefse well into his adulthood. He attended Greenfield School and graduated from Fairfield High in 1969.

After graduation, Evan sowed his wild oats, attending college in Havre and taking courses in Great Falls, before returning to the family farm. In 1974, he took over the primary operations of Vervick Farms, carrying on his family's legacy. Over the years, he made countless improvements to the original homestead and persevered through the many hardships that come with farming life. Evan worked the land for more than 50 years and, by some accounts, may have been the oldest non-retired farmer on the Bench at the time of his passing.

Though once jokingly referred to as one of the area's most eligible bachelors, Evan's heart found its match when he met the love of his life, Judy (Whitworth), on April 1, 1995, at the annual Power Fun Night. The two were married on September 19, 1998. Evan opened his heart and home to Judy and her two high school-aged children, son Justin Joyce and daughter Erin Nevers (Joyce), with unconditional love and steady support. He was a source of strength through their triumphs and struggles, always patient, forgiving, and kind.

Evan had a deep love of nature and a fondness for the quiet moments it offered. He enjoyed cross-country skiing and especially loved his farm animals, his cats, dogs, and the owls that lived in the shelterbelt. He often stepped outside at night to "talk" with the owls, hooting back and forth under the Montana sky. One of the family's favorite memories is of Evan teaching his oldest grandson to hoot with the owls on a peaceful evening walk.

He cherished the company of children, whether they were his grandsons, nieces, nephews, or neighborhood kids visiting the farm. He delighted in showing them around, sharing stories, and giving them the thrill of driving a tractor or climbing into the combine. Having his grandsons visit the farm brought him immeasurable joy and allowed him to pass on memories and lessons that will last a lifetime.

Evan was a people person to his core. He had a gift for making others feel at ease, often leaving people with the feeling that they'd known him forever. It's likely what made his years as a bartender so enjoyable. You could talk to Evan about anything, and he would listen with empathy, humor, and sincerity. His warmth and good-natured spirit drew people in and created lifelong friendships.

In addition to enjoying the simple pleasures of life, Evan had a taste for the finer things. He appreciated good food and enjoyed a wide variety of music. He favored craft microbrews, a good Scotch, and a fine glass of wine. There was nothing quite like sitting down to dinner with Evan, he could charm any waitstaff, ask all the right questions, and always figure out the best thing on the menu before making his final choice. Dining with him was an experience, full of laughter, conversation, and thoughtful recommendations.

Evan is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his son, Justin Joyce, and grandsons Zander and Nolan Joyce; his daughter, Erin Nevers, and her husband Bryan Nevers, along with their son Cullen; many extended family members: including in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and countless close friends. He leaves behind a hole that can never be filled in their lives, and in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Evan was a loyal friend, a man of quiet strength, deep integrity, and enduring faith. His easy smile, gentle wisdom, and warm presence will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bert Vervick, and mother, Cora Vervick (Lundby).