June 11, 1937 – May 15, 2021
Mary Kathryn “Kathy” Varner, 83, of Buffalo passed away Saturday, May 15, 2021, at her home surrounded by family, after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
She is preceded in death by her parents Maurice and Ruth Buchanan Swanson, son Paul Varner, and daughter in-law Joy Varner.
Kathy is survived by her loving husband Norman of 64 years. They were married in Buffalo, MN on June, 9 th,1956.
Kathy is loved and will be missed by her children Ruth (Mike)Rose, Ralph Varner, and Jill (Justin) Johnson; grandchildren Kali Magnuson, Colleen Doyle, Jade Morrissette, Randi Varner, Lincoln Johnson and Caleb Johnson; and great-grandchildren Ariana, Riley and Mara. She will also be missed by her sister Carolyn (Curtis) Romfo of Longview, Washington and brother Jan (Nancy)Swanson of Isanti, MN; and many other family and friends.
Kathy was born in Buffalo, MN on June, 11 1937. She graduated from Buffalo High School in 1955. Kathy
worked as a paraprofessional and in school food service. She enjoyed serving in various roles and committees in community organizations including Farm Bureau, 4H, the Minnesota Extension Office, and the Buffalo United Methodist church including funeral lunch coordination. Notably, Kathy and Norman were recognized as Farm Family of the year in 1980. Kathy also volunteered many hours with Meals on Wheels.
Her hobbies included gardening, making family favorite baked goods, quilting, spending time with her grandchildren and friends. She will always be remembered for her infectious smile, positive attitude and aptitude at caring for others.
Kathy chose to donate her body to the University of Minnesota Anatomy Bequest Program to further science and learning for future generations.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 8th from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at The Buffalo United Methodist Church. Further visitation will be held on Wednesday morning, June 9 from 10:00-11:00 A.M. at the church.
A Memorial Service for “Kathy” Varner will be held on Wednesday, June 9th at 11:00 A.M. at The Buffalo United Methodist Church. Pastor Bill Reinhart will officiate.
Memorials are preferred to The University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Hospital.
I am so sorry to hear this. God Bless and prayers for strength.
You’ve been such a delightful matron of your family. I’m sure you are receiving your just reward. Thanks you.
So sorry to hear. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Oh my word. This hurts my heart so bad. Kathy was my second Mom. I loved her dearly. I realized at a young age that other peoples Moms were my Moms too. Paul and Ralph and Ruth were like brothers and sisters! Sorry. I never knew the youngest. Our families were so close. I will miss her. My heart is so sad! I hope everyone is okay!
So very sorry for your loss. Kathy was a peach. Always had a smile on her face, was a very positive and uplifting person. Her spirit will live on forever through all who knew her.
God Bless her family and friends for Strength and Peace during this time. 😇💚🤗
Norman and family,
Our community has lost one of it’s foundation members. She will be missed. Prayers to ease your heart.
Shelley Swenson Held