Larisa Varela

Larisa Martina Varela, 38, passed away November 16, 2022, following a tragic accident while traveling. She was born March 31, 1984, in Newark, Ohio, the daughter of Tracey Bross-Varela.
    
Larisa, a 2002 graduate of Mt. Vernon High School went on to attend Florida State University earning BS degrees in Geography, Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies. She earned her Masters in Community and Regional Planning from the University of Oregon. Upon graduation she worked in several positions that advanced her to the career of a Transportation Planner for the City of Eugene, Oregon. She led their team on many projects over the years and made a great impact on equality, which was very important to her.
  
Larisa was an avid bicycle enthusiast and free spirit. She was always up for adventure and loved to travel. Most importantly, she had a passion for people, animals, and nature. After all her achievements, including landing her dream job and owning her own home in Eugene, Larisa needed a change.  Nature brought her the most peace and she wanted to reconnect with herself and spend time doing what she loved.  After dedicating many years to public service, Larisa decided to take time off to travel to beautiful places, visit old friends and, as always, make new friends along the way. Unfortunately, her journey ended far too soon but we try to find peace in knowing that in her last months of life she was able to do what she truly enjoyed, traveling, bringing her many great adventures and happiness.  Without a doubt, those who knew her will remember her genuine smile and feel her loving spirit.
    
“The most beautiful things in life are not things.  They're people and places and memories and pictures.  They're feelings and moments and smiles and laughter."  -- author unknown --
    
Larisa is survived by her mother, Tracey Bross-Varela, sister Lauren, niece Sophia, her pup Poe, grandfather Ralph Bross; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Arlene (Mossholder) Bross, and her beloved dog Luke.
    

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to support the rehoming and future expenses of Larisa's companion pup Poe, who is being adopted by a close friend of Larisa's. Donations can be made through PayPal using Tracey's email address of tiptoeinthesand@yahoo.com or reach out to Tracey or a family member if you would prefer a postal mailing address.