Ray H. Varney

Ray H. Varney Ray H. Varney was born on March 2, 1922 and entered into Heaven to join his "bride" (as he still lovingly referred to her) of close to 50 years, Anita Varney on March 1, 2014. He was also preceded in death by his daughter Susan Gates, his brother Jim Varney, and his sister Betty. He is survived by his daughters Penny Luis (Elvin) and Bee Gates, his sons Jeffrey Varney (Teresa), John and Chris, his sisters and brothers Josie, June, Troy and Gary, and various nieces and nephews. He was also a grandfather, great grandfather and great great grandfather to over 100 grandchildren, along with their spouses. He often told people if HE wasn't a grandpa, then no one was with that amount of grandchildren! He was the leader of a family 5 generations strong. He took great pride in his family and told everyone, everywhere he went about them. He was known to his family and around town for his amazing sense of humor. He always had a joke or a funny story to tell. Every time someone had to leave and they said goodbye, he answered with "Hate to see you go - ha ha ha!", accompanied by his boyish grin. He was also very proud of being Santa at Walmart in Arkansas for many years. He lived a life that was defined by his distinguished service as a US Navy Master chief Petty Officer where he served for 32 years. He fought in WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietman War. He won the Meritorious Unit Commendation with 2 bronze stars, the African/European Campaign with 2 bronze stars, the Vietman Service Medal with 4 bronze stars, along with 9 other medals, including the Purple Heart, for when he was wounded after a torpedo sunk the Steam Tanker Caddo, and he was one of only 8 survivors after being at sea in a life raft for 17 days. He also experienced being King Neptune when they crossed the equator, picking up the Astronauts from Apollo 17 after their mission, and traveling all over the world with the love of his life. Though he is gone from this earth, he will live on in our hearts and memories forever. He was a hero to our family, and a true hero of our great Nation. Donations can be made in his name to the Northcoast Vets Resource Center, 109 4th St., Eureka, CA 707-442-4322. Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com, click on obits.