Age 81, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 2, 2021, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital with his family by his side. He was born October 18, 1940, in Huddy, Kentucky, the son of Verlin and Pearl (Hensley) Varney.

Elmer worked at Ford Motor Company from 1962 to 1997 when he retired after 35 years. He spent his days on his farm tinkering with something or taking care of his chickens. He enjoyed telling stories and being with his family most.

Elmer met the love of his life and best friend, Goldie Smith, in 1960. He became her husband October 6, 1962. They were married 59 years and never spent a day apart until Goldie passed on Saturday, November 20, 2021.

Elmer is survived by his children Pearl (Ben) Brewer, Tony (Serena) Varney and Vanessa Varney; siblings George Varney, Rita Getchey, David Varney, Lonso (Eunice) Trout, Alice Marcum, Etta Carter, Fonzo (Shirley) Trout, Mildred McGlone and Joann Ratliff; grandkids Ben (Crystal) Brewer, Ashleigh (Jeremy) Shelton, Justin (Erica) Brewer. Alyssa (Chris) McCarthy, Sean (Allyson) Brewer. Alaina Varney-Santoni and Zach Varney; great-grandkids Scottie, Ben, Ethan, Brayden, Aubree, Brooklynn, Madison, Matthew, Gracelyn, Haleigh, Blake, Bennett, Christopher and Chase; among many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Billy Varney, Charles Varney John B. Varney, Leon Varney, Kathleen Brewer and Franklin Trout; son-in-law Ben Brewer and his wife of 59 years, Goldie Varney.

Visitation for Elmer will be held 3-8 pm Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at Stark Funeral Professionals. The funeral service will be the following day with visitation beginning at 10 am and the service starting at 11 am.

A further celebration of Elmer's life will be held at a later date next summer.