Rodger Dale Evenhus

Rodger Dale Evenhus, 67, of Los Alamos, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, following a lengthy illness, with his beloved wife, Nakye, holding his hand until the very end.

Rodger was born on July 27, 1958, in Lapeer, Michigan, to Gordon and Lillian Evenhus. One of ten children, he was raised with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, perseverance, and personal responsibility. Those values became the foundation upon which he built his own life and the legacy he leaves behind.

On April 28, 1978, Rodger answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. During his first assignment in Korea, he met the love of his life, Nakye Chong. What began as a chance meeting became a remarkable love story that spanned 50 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, unwavering devotion, and quiet sacrifice. They were married for nearly 48 years.

Rodger faithfully served the United States Army for more than 20 years, retiring honorably on November 30, 1995, as a Master Sergeant (E-8). Throughout his distinguished military career, he served as both an Infantryman and Armor Senior Sergeant, completing more than five years of overseas service. His final assignment was with the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he concluded a career defined by leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment to those he served alongside.

As a senior noncommissioned officer, Rodger was entrusted with mentoring Soldiers, developing future leaders, and setting the standard through his own example. He understood that leadership was earned through humility, consistency, and service to others. Those who served with him knew him as a leader they could trust, and those who loved him knew that the same integrity he wore in uniform guided every aspect of his life.

His exceptional service was recognized through numerous military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal,

Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, and the Silver German Army Marksmanship Badge.

Following his retirement from military service, Rodger worked alongside Nakye in her business until they retired together nearly 18 years ago. Though his military career had ended, his life of service continued through his unwavering commitment to his family.

Rodger was a man of deep faith and quiet strength. He believed every challenge could be met with perseverance, a positive attitude, and trust in God. He taught his family to look for the good in difficult circumstances, to work hard without complaint, and to never make excuses. His expectations were high because his love was deep. He led not with loud words, but through consistent example, integrity, humility, and steadfast character.

Nothing brought Rodger greater joy than his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. He enjoyed playing guitar, listening to music, cheering on football with his sons, and spending time with his grandchildren. More than anything, he treasured the moments shared with those he loved.

Even during his final days, Rodger’s greatest concern was not for himself, but for those he would leave behind. He reminded his children to continue caring for their mother, just as he had throughout their nearly five decades together. His final lessons were the same ones he had lived every day: love your family, keep your faith, honor your commitments, and always take care of one another.

Rodger is survived by his beloved wife, Nakye (Chong) Evenhus; his children, Jennifer Meijers Evenhus, Jeremy Evenhus and his wife, Rhonda, and Jeremiah Evenhus and his wife, Julianne; his cherished grandchildren, Danyque, Kyle, Lauren, Odin, and Brody; his nine brothers and sisters; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Lillian Evenhus.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 2:45 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

The measure of Rodger’s life is found not only in the years he lived, but in the lives he shaped. He served his country with honor, courage, and distinction. He loved his family with unwavering devotion. He led with humility, lived with integrity, and quietly inspired those around him to become better people. His greatest legacy is not found only in the medals he earned or the rank he achieved, but in the character he instilled, the example he set, and the love he gave so freely. Though deeply missed, his life will continue to guide his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.