Daniel Edwin Everist, Sr., a name synonymous with unwavering dedication and community service, breathed his last on January 13, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on February 5, 1929, in Sioux City, Iowa, Dan was the cherished seventh child of Hubert H. Everist, Sr. and Julia Green Everist. His life journey was a testament to the values of integrity, excellence, and family, leaving an indelible mark not only in Iowa but also in South Dakota, a state intimately connected to his professional accomplishments and personal exploration.
In his formative years, Dan attended Blessed Sacrament Elementary School, Canterbury Prep School, and Central High School, which laid the groundwork for his sterling academic journey. His pursuit of knowledge took him to Stanford University, where he graduated in 1951 with a degree in Civil Engineering. That same monumental week, he wed his kindergarten sweetheart, Mary Louise Wadden, and began his service to the nation with the United States Air Force.
The breadth of Dan’s career in civil engineering was as expansive as it was impactful, with Western Contracting Corporation benefitting from his expertise. His Professional Engineer certification bore witness to his proficiency in the field, as he left a lasting legacy across the United States. Noteworthy among his many projects was his role in the construction of the Big Bend Dam near Chamberlain, South Dakota—a monument of engineering that stands as a reminder of his commitment to development and sustainability in the region.
Aside from his professional life, Dan was deeply rooted in the community and environment of Sioux City, Iowa, yet he maintained a strong connection with South Dakota. The construction of the Big Bend Dam notably influenced the state’s infrastructure, significantly impacting local communities by providing energy and recreational opportunities.
Together with Mary, Dan raised eight children, imparting the virtues of hard work, integrity, and compassion. The Everist family was a vibrant part of the Sioux City community, frequently seen enjoying golf games, spirited rounds of Pitch, and lively Saturday night dances at the Sioux City Country Club. These traditions, cherished and sustained by the Everist clan, resonated strongly with the values of community and camaraderie often found in the spirit of South Dakota.
Their adventurous spirit did not stop there. Dan and Mary broadened their horizons and enriched their lives through travel, exploring the magnificent landscapes and cultures of Machu Picchu, Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, and the Masai Mara in Kenya, among other global adventures.
Despite his travels and accomplishments, Dan Everist never lost touch with the profound value of simple, genuine relationships. He was remembered for his deep spiritual devotion, ever-present generosity, and the warmth with which he engaged family, friends, and the wider community. This compassion extended to South Dakota, where he left a legacy that encompassed efforts to bridge communities through his work and commitment to the public good.
Preceding Dan in death were his parents Hubert and Julia Everist, his beloved wife Mary Louise who passed in 2007, six siblings, his son-in-law John Romeo, and grandsons Patrick Romeo and Damon Doherty. Those who carry his memory forward include his children: Elizabeth Romeo, Sarah, MaryPat, Daniel Jr., James, Andrew, Luke, and Teresa Delfs. His familial legacy extends further, encompassing 38 grandchildren, with great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who continue to embody his spirit of love and dedication. A private burial was held in Sioux City, marking the close of a remarkable chapter that has touched numerous lives.
South Dakota’s significance in Dan’s life cannot be overstated. Projects like the Big Bend Dam not only reflect his engineering contribution but also signify his personal connection to the state’s development and well-being. His life and works continue to serve as an inspirational blueprint for both current and future generations.
The community of Sioux City and the broader Central United States region, including South Dakota, hold the Everist family in high esteem, honoring a man whose life exemplified service, dedication, and the beauty of human connection. As they reflect on Daniel Everist’s monumental impact, his story stands as a testament to the benefits of collaboration and perseverance that echo throughout the Midwest.