E. Don Varner

Varner - E. Don, 91, Geistown Borough, was called Home to the Lord on May 22, 2020. He was born on July 19, 1928 in Elton, PA, Son of Earl F. & Muriel E. (Brewer) Varner. Preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Zane, Bill & Glenn and sister, Mildred Redfern. Survived by wife, Barbara (Deitke) who celebrated 65 wonderful years of marriage on August 7.  He is also survived by two daughters, Debbie Gorzelsky, and her husband Bill, Elton and Sherri Kofmehl and her husband, Paul, Johnstown. Also survived by the pride of his life, his five grandsons, Craig Gorzelsky and wife Sarah, Quincy, PA, Brett Gorzelsky and wife, Jenn, Johnstown, Scott Gorzelsky and wife Sarah, Pittsburgh, Jason Kofmehl and wife, Megan, Mechanicsburg, and Jonathan Kofmehl and his special friend, Kelsey Preston, Brambleton, VA. Don had four great-grandchildren, Luke and Max Gorzelsky and Jacob and Macey Kofmehl. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. He had a lifetime career with A&P Grocery as a Store Manager and District Manager in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Don was long time member of Beulah United Methodist Church. He dedicated his life as a YMCA, high school and collegiate swimming official locally and nationally. Don enjoyed many hours on his fishing boat with a cigar in his mouth with the Allegheny Mountain Bass Anglers Club. He loved to spend time camping at Lake Raystown with “Barbie" and his family. Don enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins. Donnie was dedicated to his family and loved anytime the gang was together. Due to current health conditions, there will be a private family viewing and service at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Private entombment will be at Richland Mausoleum with military rites conducted by Menoher Post #155 VFW Ritual Team. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date to be announced. The family suggests contributions be directed to Alzheimer’s Association, 1086 Franklin Street, Johnstown, PA 15905 or Beulah United Methodist Church, 716 Bedford Street, Johnstown, PA 15902 in memory of Don. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.