Evelyn Anne Garness

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyn Anne Garness, age 100, of Des Moines, Iowa, who passed away on January 13, 2026, at Bishop Drumm.

Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Merle Hay Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m.

Evelyn was born on December 20, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Edward Petersen and Hannah Olsen Petersen. She grew up in Des Moines and graduated from North High School.

Evelyn married Hugh A. Kern Jr., who preceded her in death after three years of marriage. She later married Oren J. Garness, and the two were later divorced. Evelyn eventually moved to San Diego, California, where she worked in the insurance industry as an executive secretary.

After retiring, Evelyn returned to Des Moines to spend time with her sister Jeanne and brother Donald. After suffering a stroke, she moved to assisted living and later to nursing care at Bishop Drumm.

Evelyn loved animals and often talked about her dog, Trixie. She was appreciative and grateful for even the simplest things, especially anything chocolate. Evelyn always greeted visitors with a smile and cherished every greeting card she received. During her time at Bishop Drumm, she looked forward to weekly visits from her nephew, Larry Petersen.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Jeanne Mehalovich; and her brothers, Ervin, Loren, Herbert, and Donald Petersen.

Evelyn is survived by her nieces and nephews.