Marlin E. Varner

Varner, Marlin E., 80, Windber died Aug. 6, 2017 at home. Born Nov. 4, 1936 in Windber son of the late Emery and Ertie (Grush) Varner. Survived by wife former Marilyn Phillips and daughter Sandra, at home, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Fred and Joanne Wright, Windber, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. As a boy Marlin enjoyed working on his grandfather’s farm. While in high school he was a member of FFA and one year raised a pig for the fair. His love of farming continued into his adult years as he was known for the gardens he planted, especially potatoes. After graduating from Richland High School in 1955 he started working at Bethlehem Steel Corp. He retired from there in 1988. Christmas Day evening in 1955 Marlin would meet the woman who would eventually become his wife courtesy of a blind date. Before the two could marry Marlin got his draft notice for the army. He was stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA. His time was extended during the Berlin crisis. Upon his discharge he returned home and he and Marilyn would finally marry in April, 1962 and spent the next 55 years together. Years later Christmas would also have a special meaning for him as he played Santa Claus at various places. The last 10 years being extra special as his wife joined him as Mrs. Claus. The summer of 1995 Marlin would meet a baby boy who as he grew would have a very special place in Marlin’s heart, Michael Pallone. Member of Scalp Level Trinity UMC. Family will receive friends form 2 to 4 & 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Meek & Dalla Valle Funeral Home, Inc., Windber. Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wed. at Scalp Level Trinity UMC. Pastor Jim Sands, officiating. Interment Richland Cemetery with military graveside rite by Windber VFW Ritual Team. The family would like to thank the staff of Heritage Home Health and Penn Hospice for the excellent care they provided to Marlin during his last weeks. www.meekfuneralhome.com

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