David C. Evans, 74, the co-founder of Evans & Sutherland Computer Corp. and a pioneer in the development of computer graphics and modeling, died Saturday, Oct. 3, after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.
A native of Salt Lake City, Mr. Evans was involved in the computer field for nearly half a century and is best-known for his role in the creation of pilot simulation programs used by airlines throughout the world.Mr. Evans studied electrical engineering and earned a doctorate in physics at the University of Utah at a time when the field of computer science was just emerging.
He and Ivan Sutherland first worked together as consultants to an out-of-state corporation before deciding in 1968 they needed to start their own business to turn their ideas about what computers could do into reality.
Mr. Evans also shared his ideas with students, as a professor of computer science and electrical engineering at the University of California at Berkeley and later, as the head of the U.'s computer science program.
He received many honors throughout his life for his work, his teaching and his service to his community and his church. Among his many professional honors was the 1996 Computer World-Smithsonian Award for lifetime achievement.
Funeral services are scheduled for noon on Wednesday at the Valley View LDS Stake Center, 2245 E. 3900 South. Family and friends may call from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday at the Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive and at the stake center on Wednesday, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Burial will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park.