Former US Rep Lane Evans, veterans advocate, dies
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}This Aug. 12, 2012 photo shows former Illinois Congressman Lane Evans in Davenport, Iowa, during a visit by President Barack Obama. (AP)
Former U.S. Rep. Lane Evans of Illinois, a former Marine who fought for veterans' rights during his 24 years in office, has died after a long fight with Parkinson's disease.
His legal guardian and former congressional staffer Michael Malmstrom says Evans died Wednesday at a nursing home in East Moline, Illinois.
The Democrat was 63.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Evans was first elected from his western Illinois district in 1982, and went on to serve 12 terms.
Evans announced he wouldn't seek re-election in 2006, citing his deteriorating health. He left office in January 2007.
The Vietnam War-era veteran served overseas in Okinawa, Japan.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}As a congressman, he fought for the rights of veterans, including pushing legislation to help those exposed to Agent Orange.
He is survived by his three brothers.