Harold LeRoy Varner

Harold LeRoy Varner, 86, passed away August 17, 2025 in Wichita. Harold "Big Bird" Varner was born January 8, 1939 in Kingman, Kansas, the son of Leo B Varner and Iris Althea Gilstrap Varner. He worked at Innes Dept Store, Macy's (Wichita), Cessna (Salina), Boeing (Wichita), Instructor for Central Business College (Wichita), Allis-Chalmers Tractor Manufacturer in Topeka, Federal Mogul Bearing Company (Topeka), Bombardier as Tool Designer & designed tools for the NASA space program while there.

He had memberships to:

The American Institute of Design and Drafting;

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers;

Masonic Lodges both in Salina and Wichita;

He was a Past Master of Northstar Lodge #168 in Wichita;

a member for over 50 years in the Brotherhood of Mason's

and to The North American Hunting Club;

The National Rifle Association, and

as a benefactor.

Harold is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by 2 daughters, Jill Able (Dustin), and Melissa Gordon, 3 grandchildren, Tyler (Laci), Tanner (Haley), and Taesi Stroud; two great-grandchildren; and by brothers, Cliff Varner (Linda Elder Varner) and Lawrence Varner (Marilyn).

In lieu of flowers, please send Memorial contributions made in Harold's name to the Midian Shrine Planes of Mercy, 130 N. Topeka, Wichita, KS 67202 or to the Northstar Lodge #168 A.F. & A.M., 212 N. West Street in Wichita KS 67203.