Richard Wayne Varner

1939-2021

 

     Richard Wayne Varner, 82 of Keokuk, IA died Sunday, November 7, 2021 at Blessing Health Keokuk.

     He was born May 12, 1939 in Keokuk, IA the son of William Ralph and Myrtle Florence Stephenson Varner.  

     On November 27, 1961 Richard was united in marriage to Joyce Elaine Riddle in Keokuk.  She preceded him in death on August 14, 1992.

     In his younger years, Richard had been employed at Phillips 66 in Alexandria, MO and Morse Chain in Keokuk.  

     Richard enjoyed tinkering around the house with things, working on mowers and cars and trying his luck at the casinos.  He also enjoyed entertaining his friends in his kitchen over a hot cup of coffee and solving the world affairs.  Most of all, Richard loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

     Richard is survived by one daughter, Penny Barnes of Keokuk, one son, William Varner of Keokuk, three grandchildren, Tiane Sparrow, Kyler Barnes and Cody Varner, three great grandchildren, Kennedy and Hank Sparrow and Knox Barnes and one sister, Helen Thorn of Keokuk. 

     Besides his wife, he is also preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Charles “Jack” Varner, Earl “Pete” Varner and John Varner and four sisters, Cora Varner, Marie Brown, Lucille Watson and Norma Varner and one daughter- in- law, Kerry Varner.

     A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, at Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Calvin Stevens officiating.  Burial will be in the Hickory Grove Cemetery.

     Visitation will be held after 1 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home with family meeting with friends from 6-8 p.m.

     Memorials may be made to FOKAS (Friends of Keokuk Animals)  or Keokuk Animal Services.

     Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com