Varanauski, Kathryn Anne "Babe"
Kathryn Anne "Babe" Varanauski (nee Reus), age 87, late of Tinley Park and formerly of Oak Forest. With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Kathryn Anne "Babe" Varanauski on July 1, 2021. She was born on July 20, 1933, to the late Casper and Loretta Reus. She was a loving sister of Marilyn Fitchett (nee Reus) and the late Charles Reus. Kathryn is survived by her husband, Joseph S. Varanauski, Sr.; sons, Joseph S. (Rebecca) Varan and Daniel E. (Tatyana Varan) Varanauski; grandchildren Nicolette Varan, Thomas Varan, Grace Varan, and Kateryna Varan. She was a great aunt, cousin, and friend to many. Her family was the pivotal essence of her life. First and foremost, she was a dedicated mother. She treasured her sons and embraced every moment with them. She volunteered in their school and outside activities, including serving as Den Mother, school assistant, and chauffeur. Her motherly love touched so many, including her daughters-in-law; Becky, who is forever grateful for Kathryn's invaluable support and help in Becky's educational endeavors; and Tatyana, who was instrumental in acquiring caregiver assistance to Kathryn for the past five years. Kathryn adored her grandchildren. They were her world and she was their cheerleader. She spent countless hours cheering them at numerous events, including soccer games, swim meets, volleyball games, piano recitals, and gymnastic meets. Babysitting her grandchildren was her favorite pastime, followed by solving crossword puzzles and defeating her family at "Wheel of Fortune." She had a passionate love affair with desserts, especially mint chocolate. She could easily make a box of "Frango" mints disappear in minutes. Kathryn always looked forward to her monthly get-togethers with her cousins. Over the past 45 years, she was employed by several hospitals and became a lifelong friend to many of her co-workers. She was a kind, caring, and faithful person who loved the Lord and her church. As a devout Catholic, she attended mass whenever she could. Our family would not be where it is today if we did not have her as a mother and grandmother. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Funeral Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 11:15 a.m. from the McKenzie Funeral Home, 15618 S. Cicero Avenue, Oak Forest, to St. Damian Church, Mass 12 noon. Private Interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois. Visitation is Friday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Action Sertoma,
www.actionsertoma.org is preferred. For information: 708-687-2990
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legacy.suntimes.comPublished by Chicago Sun-Times on Jul. 6, 2021.