Harry W. Evans, a maintenance mechanic and material handler at Cornell for 30 years who served in many roles, including president, of the local union (UAW Local 2300), died Aug. 14 at his home in Interlaken, N.Y. He was 60 years old.

Born in Ithaca Sept. 2, 1949, Evans helped to organize the service and maintenance employees from 1979 to 1981 and then served as zone representative of the local union for many years. He was vice president of the union 1992-97, president 1997 to 2001 and peer counselor 2001-10. In this latter role, Evans offered advice and assisted individuals who needed treatment for alcohol or drug dependency.

"Harry believed that every problem has a solution and every person deserves a second chance," said Mary George Opperman, vice president for human resources. "He was a gentle giant with a heart of gold."

Evans was widely recognized as the unofficial union historian.

"Harry touched a great many lives here at Cornell," said Barb Siany, human resources associate, Workforce Policy and Labor Relations, Division of Human Resources. "He worked tirelessly to help those in need, and he could not have imagined his life any other way. Even when he was sick himself he did not stop helping others. He was devoted to his family and to his friends. He will be missed dearly."

Terry Sharpe, food service worker at the Carol Tatkon Center and former president of the local UAW, said that Evans was "a driving force who could make the impossible happen. He loved Cornell, loved the UAW and always saw the potential in people."

Evans is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susan (Kitchin), two sons, grandchildren and other relatives.

A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 19, at Robert Purcell Marketplace Eatery (third floor, Robert Purcell Community Center), Cornell.