Barbara Varney

Barbara Jean Varney, 84, of Seymour and formerly of Marinette, WI, passed away surrounded by her family on April 15, 2026.

She was united into marriage to Richard Varney on June 4, 1966 in Portsmith, New Hampshire. Their love story was one to admire with being together for over 50 years. Richard proposed to Barbara in front of a jewelry store after 1 month of dating, before going to work together. They eventually made their way back from Maine to Wisconsin where they continued to build their life and raise their son Scott and daughter Lisa.

Barbara was a loving, caring wife, mother and grandmother. She stayed at home with her children when they were young but remained an active member of her community. Barbara had belonged to Marinette Catholic Junior League and at one time President of the Marinette Senior Center. She had many hobbies including camping, quilting, sewing and other crafts. She was always on the go, keeping herself busy with activities. She was a friend to all and enjoyed meeting new people. Her smile, laughter, and spunky personality lit up every room she entered.

For many years, Barbara enjoyed camping with her family and friends at JW Wells State Park in Cedar River, MI. Barbara and her late husband Richard, helped raise money to build a playground where she got to watch her grandchildren play and bring joy to others. Her great grandchildren are able to enjoy playing on the playground in her memory. One of Barbara's greatest joys was taking her grandchildren camping with her. Her grandaughter Colleen, would spend weeks at a time with her camping. Later on, Barbara and her late husband had a permanent campsite at Dimond Lake where she spent time with her friends and dog Ollie.

Barbara and her late husband Richard were a crafty duo. Together they worked countless hours to create their crafts. Richard was the man behind the wood saw, and Barbara was the talented painter who's woodwork continues to live in the houses of her family and friends. Barbara also had her niche in quilting, making bedspreads for her three grandchildren among many other things. She enjoyed quilting and sewing, sharing her gifts with others.

Barbara's greatest joy in life was the time she spent with her family, especially the simple, meaningful moments that became lasting memories. Whether gathered around a campfire, sharing stories, or creating something with her hands, she had a way of making everyone feel loved and welcomed. Her kindness, creativity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends will continue to live on in the traditions she passed down and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her love and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her children Lisa (Lee) Lemke and Scott (Vanessa) Varney, grandchildren Justin (Ashley) Lemke, Adam Lemke, Colleen (Fiance, Tyler) Lemke, great-grandchildren Emberly and Waylon Lemke, brother Robert (Velma) Collier, sister Marylou (Richard) Nast, and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara is preceded into death by her husband Richard, parents George and Mary Collier, and infant sister Barbara Ann.

Private funeral services will be held. Entombment at Forest Home Cemetery Mausoleum in Marinette.

Barbara's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff at Forest Glen Assisted Living and Compassus Hospice for their exceptional care and support.