Celia Valdez Varela

Celia Teresa "Jeannie" Valdez Varela Ogden - Jennie Varela returned to our heavenly father after a courageous battle with Polymyositis. She was born in Ogden Utah July 14 1933, the daughter of Celia Garcia Ruiz. Jeannie left us April 11, 2010. Born and raised in Ogden Utah, she married Antonio R Valdez in 1951; was widowed in 1974. Jeannie married Humberto J Varela in 1985. She was a member of St Joseph Catholic Church. Jeannie earned her bachelors degree from Weber State College and served as a grade school teacher at Lewis Elementary School and also participated in the Spanish migrant program at Dee Elementary School. She retired after 30 years of service. She showed unconditional, tireless love and care to all her family and friends. She loved to travel to Wendover and play the slots and blackjack. She was a life long member of Lil' Audrey's health club. She enjoyed family gatherings and singing with her sisters. She was extremely proud of her grandchildren and was a loyal family member to all. Overall she was a humanitarian and believed in improving the lives of those who were less fortunate. She is survived by her sisters Rose R Carrillo and Mary Louise Barba and one brother James A Ruiz. She was preceded in death by her sisters Juana "Joanie" Navarro and Mary Ruiz; her brothers Raymond L Ruiz, David Rivera, and Charles B Rivera; her grandson Antonio R Valdez III. She is survived by her children Antonio R Valdez II, Gina M Gallegos (Daniel) and Jacqueline Barnes (George). Her grandchildren Daniel Jason Gallegos, Carlos Gallegos, Nicholas Valdez, Patrick Valdez, Gina Valdez, and Ashley Barnes and 7 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank Wasatch Care Center, Heritage Park Care Center, and McKay Dee Hospital for their continued support and care. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday April 14, 2010 at Myers Ogden Mortuary, 845 Washington Blvd. where the family will greet friends from 11:30am to 1pm. Interment, Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch.