Ernest W. "Ernie" Varner

Ernest "Ernie" W. Varner
Age 88, of East Tawas, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in Tawas City, Michigan. Ernie was born to the late Wilber and Thelma Varner on December 8, 1936, in Midland, Michigan. He spent his childhood in Sanford, Michigan, and was a proud graduate of Midland High School, Class of 1955. Following high school, Ernie attended Central Michigan University for a year before eventually returning home. He entered the workforce with Dow Chemical before a year later being transferred to Dow Corning in Hemlock, where he worked as a Plant Protection Officer. Ernie served his role with the company for 35 hardworking years before his retirement in 1992.
Ernie married the love of his life, Judith L. (MacDonald) Varner, on May 23, 1986, in Hemlock, Michigan. The two of them spent 39 amazing years together taking on life and making endless memories. In 1996, they relocated themselves to East Tawas, Michigan.
Ernie was an avid sports fan. In particular, he favored the Detroit Tigers. It was not uncommon for Ernie to watch every Tigers game he could from start to finish, and he was a true fan! Some of his other hobbies he enjoyed were fishing, watching Michigan State basketball, making wine, golfing at Singing Bridge, and spending quality time with his friends and family. Ernie was also a large fan of singing and playing the guitar. Whether he was playing around at the local nursing homes, or singing in his church choir, he sure loved himself some classic country and gospel music. Ernie was an active member at the Tawas Area Presbyterian Church, and served as a member of the choir there for many years.
Ernie is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Judith Varner; children, Curt (Cheryl) Varner, Lori Varner, and Chris (Rose) Varner; stepchildren, Mark Etienne and Chris (Dennis Lindeman) Etienne; grandchildren, Casey, Cody, Jackson, Jason, and Lexxi; two great grandchildren; and his siblings, Dale Varner and Karen Penner. Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, Wilber and Thelma Varner.
Per Ernie's wishes, cremation has taken place. You may leave an online condolence at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.