James Peter Varano

James “Peter” Varano, age 87, of Wyoming, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Frieda; daughter, Celeste; brother, Thomas. Peter attended and graduated from Catholic Central, and later attended Aquinas College. He had a colorful work history which included Muller Baking Company, Rydell Pharmacy, the U.S. Air Force, A-West, Butterworth Hospital, Furniture City Upholstery, Fideler Publishing, Stow and Davis, Hekman Furniture, Hardware House (Rochester, NY), and Steelcase. His work led to lots of travel - all over the United States, as well as to Calgary and Toronto, Canada. European travel to Denmark, Spain, Austria, Italy, France, and both West and East Germany (Checkpoint Charlie). Outside of work, Peter was a coach for his sons’ little league teams. He built his  own cottage on Indian Lake, Howard City. He spent many years volunteering at Holy Name of Jesus Church and San Juan Diego Academy in his retirement. He loved wood crafts and carving, as well as painting, and he participated in craft shows in Florida, Holland, Steelcase, and the Wyoming Senior Center. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Madelyn; sons, Brian (Sandra), Rev. Gregory (Kathleen); daughter, Colleen (Kenneth); six granddaughters, Hollie, Jami, Megan, Maria, Renna, and Katie; three grandsons, Peter Marcus, Michael, and Nikolas; four great-grandchildren; his brother, Roger (Maryanne); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 am Saturday, January 11th  at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 1048 Chicago Dr., Wyoming, MI 49509, with Rev. Stephen Dudek presiding.  Burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 4-7 pm at MKD Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Kentwood MI, and for one hour prior to the service at church. In lieu of flowers, please make remembrances to San Juan Diego Academy. To all at Trillium Woods, many thank yous and blessings for your TLC.