Alton, NH

Robert Samuel Varney, 93, passed away at his home in Alton on Friday evening, November 12, 2021, after a brief illness.

Robert was born in Rochester, NH to Richard Joseph and Minnie Bell Varney on March 2, 1928.  He had two brothers, Fred Varney and Charles Varney, and one sister, Minniebelle A. Varney, all who predeceased him.   He grew up in Rochester, graduated from Spaulding High School and was quite a good roller skater often seen practicing his style at the Alton Bay Pavilion Roller Rink.  It was at one of these outings that he met his future wife who was also pretty good on those skates.

He served his country in the National Guard from 1947 through 1950.

Robert married Elizabeth Charlotte Drew on July 1, 1951 in Gilmanton Iron Works and together they raised a family of six children; David Varney and wife Carol of Belmont, Peter Varney and wife Elizabeth of Alton, Robert Varney and partner Brenda of Alton, Valerie Burwell and partner John of Alton, Paul Varney and wife Kim of Somersworth, and Judy Ingoldsby and husband Karl of Alton.  He is also survived by grandchildren, David Varney, Michael Varney, Megan Stanley, Danielle Burwell, Ashley Varney, Drew Ingoldsby, Hudson Ingoldsby, Jordan Ingoldsby and several great-grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his wife of 66 years in 2017.

His primary occupation was as an electronics engineer but he served his community as a scoutmaster, firefighter, police chief, and other positions at various times.  He loved people and could strike up a conversation with anybody, even strangers who would soon become his friends.

A graveside service will be held at Old Riverside Cemetery in Alton on Friday, November 19 at 1PM.

To express condolences, please visit: www.peasleefuneralhome.com