Richard "Rich" Varner

Richard “Rich” Allen Varner, 77, of Missoula, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Rich was born in Butte, Montana, on August 5, 1948, to Preston and Selma Varner. He graduated from Butte High School in 1967. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served aboard the USS Independence in the Mediterranean Sea until his honorable discharge in 1972.

On November 17, 1973, Rich married the love of his life, Margaret “Peggy” Woods, in Butte. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They welcomed their daughter, Allison, in 1977, and after moving to Missoula in 1978, their son, Richie, arrived in 1980.

Rich spent his career as an electrician at the Stone Container Mill in Frenchtown, where he worked from 1978 until his retirement. During those years, he formed countless lifelong friendships and was known for his strong work ethic and good humor.

A true Montanan, Rich loved spending time in the great outdoors — hunting, fishing, rafting, and skiing (both on snow and water). He took great joy in cruising around in his beloved 1955 Chevy and was equally known for his talent in the kitchen. Rich’s cooking brought people together, and he was happiest sharing a good meal, a laugh, and a story with those he loved. His quick wit and warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

Above all else, Rich was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Rich is survived by his children, Allison Varner and Richie (Windy) Varner; his grandchildren, Kayden, Aspen, and Parker Varner; his sister, Joanne Hamodey; his best friend, Ron (Susan) Chatriand; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Preston and Selma Varner; wife, Margaret “Peggy” Varner; siblings, Larry Varner; Duffy Varner; and Betty Newgard.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 17, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, with placement in the Sunset Memorial Mausoleum to follow. A reception will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home after the committal service.

Online condolences may be left at sunsetfuneralhomecemetery.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ronald McDonald House and/or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in Rich’s name.