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Matthew Varner Obituary
He was born April 24,1955, to the late Howard D. and Mae E. Varner. In 1973, Matt graduated from Brandywine High School in Wilmington, Delaware, where he met his soulmate, Jane, who he wooed with his southern accent and quick moves on the basketball court. He received a BS from the University of Delaware in 1977, and a MBA from the University of Georgia in 1978. After marrying in 1978, Matt and Jane moved to Charlotte and proudly called the city their home for nearly 40 years.
Matt worked for Willis Towers Watson for over 37 years, where he served as Senior Vice President and led the Carolinas Construction Practice. He cherished the relationships built with colleagues and clients alike, and was an active member of the CFMA Charlotte Chapter. Outside of work, "Poppy" adored spending time with his grandchildren, cheering on his favorite teams with his two sons, and beating any challengers in cornhole, whether at a tailgate or on the beach. He treasured his annual golf outings with best friends Jonathan and Rodney. Together, Matt and Jane loved taking shag dance lessons (but never quite learning), walking their beloved dogs Kirby and Winston, and spending relaxing weekends in Blowing Rock.
Matt is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jane, son Timothy and wife Lauren of Charlotte, North Carolina, son Christopher and wife Hannah of Raleigh, North Carolina, and grandchildren Gray and Reid. He is also survived by his brother, Allen Varner and wife Sheila, of Montgomery, Alabama.
A service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, followed by a gathering of family and friends in the church Fellowship Hall.
Donations in Matt's honor can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (pancan.org).
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth Poe Funeral & Cremation Services, 1321 Berkeley Ave Charlotte NC 28204. Online condolences at www.kennethpoeservices.com Phone: 704-641-7606.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Varner
April 23, 2017
Blessings Matt.. You will definitely be miss by All. Peace Brother! Don Ritter
April 5, 2017
Jane and boys, I am at a loss for words, when Anne and I moved to Charlotte with our daughter Cait you opened your hearts to us.
We enjoyed a wonderful meaningful relationship with you all even when We were transferred to San Francisco. Matt was one of a kind and we are all better people for having known him. May he find comfort where he is now and may God watch over you all.
With love and admiration,
Kevin and Anne McMahon
Steven Stein
March 27, 2017
I just heard about Matt's untimely passing last night. While I'd not seen him since I moved from Delaware in 1977, I've always remembered him fondly from Brandywine and playing football there together.
You all have my sincerest condolences.
Steve
March 26, 2017
Matt was a wonderful person with a quick wit and ready smile. We lost touch, but I never forgot him.
Eric Saegebarth
March 25, 2017
I just learned of Matt's passing from Bob Norris....very sad to hear the news. Matt became a good friend when he moved to Sharpley in 10th grade. We played many sports together, started the Red Men and drank hoola boola juice. I always loved his work ethic, helpful nature, and electric smile. Very sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts are with you. Stay strong and dwell on the great times you had.... I know there were many. I was great to see Matt and Jane in 2013....you were a great love story. Eric
March 21, 2017
Jane, I am very sorry for your loss. When you have a minute, give me a call. John Windell 704 614-0632
March 17, 2017
Allan and I extend condolences to the Varner family. We will always remember the good times our families shared over many years. Matt's fantastic smile and his gracious ways were some of his many gifts to the world. We are fortunate to have known Matt. We wish you comfort, peace and courage to face the days ahead and the power to hold the loving memories of Matt in your heart now and always.
Allan and Sylvia Ross
Joe Kimmel
March 15, 2017
Sue and I want you to know that after all these years we still think about meeting you two when our kids were so young. I always looked forward to seeing you when we met twice a year at meetings. We wish you peace, love, and comfort in due time with the thoughts of all the lives Matt touched through the years. He will be missed but not forgotten! Matt had an "Amazing Grace" about him and the love you two shared was always evident and appreciated Jane. Peace be with you.
Carol Ogburn
March 15, 2017
Matt was a wonderful man. He was so good and gracious to me and was always willing to lend a hand to help me out at work (Willis-Greenville office). My prayers are with his family during this sad time.
Angela Price
March 15, 2017
We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to The Varner family.
I had the good fortune of meeting Matt through my husband Brad at CFMA meetings we attended together. I understood why Brad always spoke so highly of Matt. Before our son, Ryan graduated from UGA, he and Matt met for lunch. Ryan appreciated Matt's professional knowledge and wisdom. Matt was a kind man. We are blessed to have known him. We were saddened to hear of his passing, and we will miss him.
John Barrow
March 14, 2017
Jane,
My heart and my prayers go out to you and your family. May God bless and keep you during this difficult time. As the many others who have offered their condolences attest, Matt was a very special person and he will be greatly missed.
fayne howle
March 14, 2017
We are friends with Allen and Sheila. We send our deepest sympathy to your entire family as you remember and honor Matt's life.
Fayne and Joe Howle
Noele Roth
March 14, 2017
I am so very sorry to hear of Matt's passing, and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues (aka his Willis family). My thoughts are with you.
March 14, 2017
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry for your loss!! I remember many good times at CMG and what a great marriage and family you have!! Your love for your husband and kids was an inspiration to us all !! God bless you and may He help you through this most difficult time. Peace, Aurelie May
March 14, 2017
Jane,
Jerry & I are happy to have had you, Matt, & your boys in our lives over the years. St Gabriel's CMG initially brought us together. Christopher & Tim babysat our children with great care. We still talk about the couples' evening at your house & the fun games. And we have enjoyed seeing you & Matt at the work fun events. Matt was a wonderful man & now he is God's loving arms. I hope you & the boys find Great Comfort as we all remember Matt.
Love, Donna Focht
Meg Moran
March 14, 2017
Jane, I am so sorry to hear this news! I have such wonderful and fun memories of our time in CMG! Sharing a glass of wine and trying to help you over your fear of flying!! I will keep you and your family in my prayers and give you a call soon! Miss you Meg Moran
March 14, 2017
Jane and Family: please know how sorry I am and will be saying prayers your way, Hugs to you Gail Bush
Libby Preble
March 14, 2017
Jane. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you find peace and support in the love of your friends, your family and your faith.
Love Libby
Bethany Elliott
March 14, 2017
On behalf of Allen's "work family" at the Alabama Forestry Commission, I'd like to offer our condolences in the loss of Mr. Varner. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rick Lambeth
March 14, 2017
I was fortunate to meet Matt and his family while living in the Oxford Hunt neighborhood in Charlotte. We became good friends and played a lot of basketball together. My son Jonathan became close friends with Tim as well. Later in life our paths crossed again in business and Matt was always the consummate gentleman with the highest integrity. I regret that I had not spoken to Matt in over a year but he will not be forgotten. I will always consider him a dear friend. God's speed, Matt.
Chris Halapy
March 14, 2017
A kind and caring man who was always willing to help...and always brought a smile and a laugh to the room...you'll be missed friend....
Jennifer Tindal
March 14, 2017
Matt's smile and caring heart will be missed by so many. He had such a bright, positive attitude, even through his fight. His life will have a lasting impact on all those who knew him. Matt was more than a colleague; I am proud to have called him my friend.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7
Susie Hoover
March 14, 2017
I am sorry to hear about Matt's passing. I knew him through work and he was a great guy. God be with you all.
Bill & Kate Whistler
March 14, 2017
Matt...as the song goes...humble and kind. We'll spend the rest of our days not only remembering him...but working to be more like him. Just one of the many legacies he leaves behind.
March 14, 2017
MATT WILL ALWAYS BE MY FRIEND
HE CHANGED MY LIFE IN SO MANY WAYS
JOHN LYON MT AIRY NC
Teresa Orton
March 13, 2017
I did not have the opportunity to meet Matt, but I believe I know something about his character and his love of family from chatting with his son, Chris. My heart goes out to Chris and to the entire Varner family at this time of immense loss and overwhelming sorrow. Peace be with you all.
Teresa Orton
Quintiles IMS
Marcy & Vince Corrado
March 13, 2017
Great, wonderful, and caring person...Matt you are the Best and always will be...Marcy & Vince Corrado
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