Rotarians and LDS Church leaders paid homage Friday to the late Richard L. Evans - a revered leader in both organizations.
The voice of "Music and the Spoken Word" for more than 40 years, member of the Council of the Twelve of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and former president of the Rotary International Club was lauded during a special meeting in the Tabernacle for Rotary Club members visiting Salt Lake City for a zone convention.Elder Marion D. Hanks of the Presidency of the Seventy of the LDS Church described Elder Evans as a worker of prodigious capacities and a strength in time of need.
"His life was committed to the betterment and blessing of God's children," he said.
"Of course we miss him, but we shall hear from him again. As sure as the sun rises in the morning . . . Music and the Spoken Word by Richard Evans will be heard again."
Keith O. Burnham, former vice president of Rotary International and a former district governor under Elder Evans in the organization, said the broadcaster had a large effect on his life because of his example and leadership.
"I think it would be fair to say Richard Evans was the most quoted man in Rotary," he said. "He was a tribute to his church and that affected me as to how I looked upon the membership of his church."
Burnham continued, "If he were here, I know that he would be proud of the efforts Rotary has made in the helping of human beings."
Former Rotary International Director Michael G. Pedrick honored Elder Evans's "confidante and adviser," his wife, Alice. "She gave him the security that he needed so much," he said. "He always had a smile on his face and I think she was the reason for that smile."
Rotary International President Hugh M. Archer said he was privileged to have been touched by Elder Evans. He said his "teacher" used to speak about love and compassion and Archer urged those gathered at the Tabernacle to use those gifts.
"The more we use them, the more we receive. The more we give away, the more we possess," he said.
Members of the First Presidency of the LDS Church were presented with Rotary plates depicting the organization's Polio Plus program - a campaign to provide enough vaccine and volunteer medical assistance to wipe out five different diseases including polio from the Earth.
The LDS Church's "substantial contribution" to the program helped financially and was "an inspiration to others," said Richard King, Rotary International Director. The donation was the largest of any church in the world.
The Tabernacle Choir also performed during the tribute meeting.