Hi Suraj,
Sending my sincerest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. I hope you can find comfort that your son is still with you in spirit and that he wouldn't want you to be sad. Cherish the fond memories and smile when you think of him. Sending healing thoughts and prayers to you and your family. With kind regards, Roxanne Beaver

Varun and I had class in Ms.Chehab's eighth-grade science. I sat across from him, and he told me about Ewing sarcoma and his journey. He told me how happy he was that Make-A-Wish gave him Blaze. I almost teared up in class because I, (like many others),  are so inspired by Varun and his consistent positive and happy spirits. I know he still is near and we all carry him in our hearts forever as a community. I remember talking to him on Instagram just weeks before his passing, and he said something I will never forget. "its ok to be sad, but dont think its the end of the world, always believe and accept your fate and you will come out stronger." -Varun Varma. He told this to me when I was talking about how i had broke my leg. Even though I had a broken leg and he had so many more things he could complain about, HE was the one who was trying to make ME feel better. Every time id pass him in the halls of Sunset and tumwater, even just seeing him and waving would make my day. I never knew that a passing of a peer can affect you so much. But as i write this with a lump in my throat all i can say is how thankful i am to have had moments with Varun and that I can cherish forever. Everything that I do and everything I will do ill always remember who im doing it for.

To the Varma Family,

My heart is broken hearing about your loss. "Sorry" isn't an adequate word. When I spoke with Varun about the Sam Day Foundation for my story, I was so struck by his optimism, intelligence, and kindness. I am so glad to have met him, and I feel honored that I had the chance to hear and share his story.

Sincerely,
Samantha Holm

Jyoti and Suraj, I am so sorry for your loss. I don’t think there is anything I can say or do to  take away the pain but I hope you will find the strength and courage to cope with this tragedy. 


-Kapil Bhati

Jyoti
Very sorry to hear this news ! 
Our deepest condolences to you and your family !! 
Our prayers to give you and your family the strength and peace during this difficult time !

Dear Jyoti & Suraj,

It’s been a very long time since I’ve had the pleasure of seeing you and your family. I still remember when you both were newly married and seeing you grow your family. Varun’s smile is till vivid in my memory. I heard the tragic news of his passing only today! I’m gutted by the loss you are undoubtedly experiencing, and words are failing me.

I’ve spent the last hour reading all the sweet messages about Varun - his smarts. wit and large heartedness are a consistent theme! I hope his sweet memories are a companion through this time and in the future. 

I wish there was something I could do - just know that even from a distance, I’m holding you in my heart and here if there is ever a need for a distraction or change of scene. 

Big hugs!
Anita

Dear Suraj, Jyoti and Rohan,

It was truly an honor to learn so much more about Varun today. His passion, leadership, kindness, were all amazing to hear about. The funeral service was beautiful — a touching tribute to a life lived with courage and grace through all his health battles, even as it was deeply heartbreaking to say goodbye. 

As you face the days ahead, I hope you find comfort and strength in your faith, and in the love of those around you. Varun’s memory will remain with us always, cherished and never forgotten. 

Lots of prayers and hugs from all of us,
Jose, Liza, Grace and Aaron

Dear Jyoti, Suraj, and Rohan,

I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son and brother. It was a joy and honor for me to be Rohan’s teacher, and I know how much Rohan loved his little brother. Varun and your entire family are in our prayers. 

With Much Love,
John Gorman

Dear Varmas,

I didn't get to know Varun for a very long time, but for the while that I had the absolute joy of tutoring him, he helped me make so many memories and made my day amazing in that one hour. Every time I joined the call, he would tease me about something stupid I said the last session, like "plug and chug," and started it off with just a little bit about how his week had been. He brought life to something even as monotone as math, and never failed to bring a smile to my face.

I'm still very much in shock that we could have lost someone as strong, intelligent, funny, and frankly amazing as Varun. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I cannot imagine the pain that your family is going through regarding this loss, but I hope you find comfort in knowing Varun spread his positivity and kindness everywhere and with everyone. I will always remember him as the best student ever. 

Rishabh Susarla

There are no words that can truly ease the pain of losing Varun, his spirit, strength, and kindness touched so many of us deeply. In just 15 years, he lived with a purpose and positivity that inspired everyone around him. His courage, smile, and the warmth he brought into every room left an imprint that will never fade.
Varun may have had a short life, but the impact he made was immense—far beyond what most achieve in a lifetime. He showed us what it means to live fully, love openly, and face challenges with grace. That is his legacy, and it will continue to live on in everyone who knew him.
Please know that our thoughts and heart are with you. May you find strength in his memory and comfort in knowing how deeply loved and admired he was.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Chandrika and Gokul

Suraj & Jyoti, 
We share your deep sorrow for the loss of your dear son Varun. It is heartbreaking. Please accept our deepest condolences and may god give you and the family strength to cope with the loss. Varun will always remain in our hearts. He lived a rich and meaningful life, and his memories will be cherished forever. May his soul rest in peace. 
 
-Arvind and Geetanjali

These boys were such a great OBOB team, at Findley Elementary.  this particular year (3/2020) they came in 3rd place.  Great sportsmanship.  Varun is missed.

On the morning of August 20th, I got a video call from Varuni. With that unmistakable twinkle in his eyes — the same one he got from Jyoti — he looked at me and, true to form, teased me once again: “Fatty!” he laughed, reminding me (yet again!) to stick to my workouts. That was Varun — full of life, wit, and love, even when life wasn’t being kind to him. And just a day later, on August 21st, everything changed. My baby had a high fever and had to be rushed to the hospital.

Every single call from him, every moment around him, was pure joy. He could talk about anything under the sun — planes, cricket, stories — always curious, always passionate. Conversations with him were never ordinary.

At the hospital, the doctors and nurses adored him. Even as a 11 year old , he showed a strength and maturity that humbled all of us. He would never let his pain show. In fact, during the days I spent with him there, he would explain all the chemo drugs to me — what they did, how they worked. He only fell silent when the treatment drained him, but even then, the moment he had a little energy, he was back with his usual wit and humour, teasing us, laughing, spreading light.

Whenever we crumbled, it was he who told us to stay positive and take things one day at a time. 

It still amazes me how everyone — truly everyone — who met Varun has such beautiful, unique memories of him. He touched lives in ways we’ll never fully grasp. He lived with so much grace, laughter, and kindness, despite everything.

His recent trip to India in June only happened because he insisted on visiting his grandparents and Adi Bhaiyya in Gurgaon. 
That’s the kind of heart he had — always thinking of others.

And Deepu Mama’s darling — I’m sure he’s with him now, the two of them having a hearty laugh somewhere up there, full of mischief and joy.

We are going to miss you my baby …
But we will remain strong , that is what you have taught us …

Loads of love , cuddles and kisses ❤️
Anjummai

Jyoti and Family,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.

Dear Jyoti, Suraj and Rohan,

Holding all of you close in our thoughts and prayers. No words can take away the pain, but we’re praying that God gives you strength through this difficult time. May Varun rest peacefully and keep shining his big, beautiful smile with God.

Lots of love,
Nixon and Shaigy

Rohan, Jyoti and Suraj,

My heart goes out to you during this time of great loss. I will be keeping you in my prayers as you grieve your beloved Varun.  My faith says that you will be reunited again one day as a family.  I pray for your courage, peace, strength and  solace during this difficult time.

Much love,
Erin DeKlotz

“I am going to Hawaiiiii”, do you know where it is squealed a 10 year old voice into my ears over the phone.  I think it was a long weekend and Raja  and I were driving to Vermont to be with some cousins and relax.  Varun teased me a lot “your trip is not going to be as fun as ours”!! He was confident and so sure that I started doubting our trip itself 😀😀.  This I was pre COVID and this was before the cancer gripped him and he fought it like a soldier fighting for a cause and to set an example.That was my boy, full of exuberance and excited.  It didn’t need a trip to Hawaii to make him happy.  Small things like Blaze licking him, his brother Rohan teasing him, a chat with his friend, the small and even what may seem insignificant to us made him happy.  He was observant and  curious.  While I have not spent as much time with Varun, over the years I have been following his battle with the disease with a strength that only he had.  He was positive and never thought of himself with pity, he always found the inspiration and strength from others who were fighting their own battles.  Amazing, isn’t it.  He has taught me to think through my own battles with my mind and a fine example and a teacher to me chase out my depression.  Varun you will give me the strength.I have met numerous people whose life Varun touched during his illness and they have only fine things to say about him.  Be it his school friends, his principal or teachers, his music and squash teachers, they have that smile on their faces when they speak about him.  The neighbours and friends, his age, elders and the elderly say “he can have a conversation with anyone any age” and teach everyone a thing or two, You  continue to inspire.  I hope you are cuddled and pampered by your grandparents and Deepu mama. Rohan will miss you, teasing you and going out to eat with you.  Your Acha will miss you playing  games in the next room, discussing cricket and scores with you.  Your amma, you live on with her.

Dear Jyoti - It is shocking to hear the loss of your child Varun. My deepest condolences to you and to your family. May you all have strengths to get through this difficult time - know that we are here to support you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Jyoti,

It was heartbreaking to get the news about Varun’s passing – please accept my condolences. 

Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Vipul

Dear Jyoti,

I am sorry for your loss, thinking of your family and you during this difficult time. Sending you strength and warm hug. 

Lay K.

In Loving Memory of Varun

Dear Jyoti, Suraj, and Rohan,

My heart aches for you, and I can’t find words strong enough to express the sadness I feel for your loss. Varun was so much more than a nephew to me—he was a constant source of wonder, laughter, and pride. I am truly in awe of the person he was, and I feel so grateful for every moment I got to spend with him.

Varun’s resilience and wit were remarkable, and his playful spirit always brought a smile to my face. He was wise beyond his years, and I often found myself learning from him. His passion for sports—especially cricket and football—was contagious. I’ll never forget the time in India when he joined a cricket game with the local kids and parents. Seeing him share his love and knowledge of the game, and watching everyone’s amazement when they learned he lived in the US, filled me with such pride.

Varun had a rare gift for connecting with people, no matter their age or background. His laughter was infectious, and his quick wit could light up any room. I will always cherish our conversations, his thoughtful questions, and the way he made everyone around him feel special.

He leaves behind a void that cannot be filled, and I know he will be deeply missed by all of us—especially you, his beloved parents and brother. Please know that I am holding you close in my heart and sending you all my love as you navigate this unimaginable loss.

With all my love,
Deepti and Abhi

In Loving Memory of Varun.

Varun was someone who inspired awe in everyone who knew him. Resilient, witty, playful, knowledgeable, and mature beyond his years, Varun brought joy and light wherever he went. His passion for sports—especially cricket and football—was remarkable, and his enthusiasm was infectious.

During a visit to India, Varun joined a game of cricket with local kids and parents. When they learned he lived in the US, they were amazed by his deep knowledge of the game, a testament to his love and dedication.

Varun had a gift for conversation; he could connect with anyone, regardless of age. His laughter and quick wit were a source of happiness and comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be deeply missed by his entire family and all whose lives he touched.

Over these past days, I have watched an endless stream of friends and family come in to comfort Jyoti, Rohan, Suraj and the entire extended family. Each person brings with them stories of Varun—stories of his optimism, his kindness, his courage, and the way he touched lives across generations.

He was diagnosed four years ago, and though the prognosis was known, none of us expected it to come so soon. Yet what shines through in every memory is how he faced each challenge with grace—never complaining, always giving, and lifting up those around him.

Though I never had the chance to meet him in person, through these stories and tears I feel as though I have. His undefeatable spirit and boundless compassion have left lessons for all of us—about resilience, love, and living with strength.

I grieve with Jyoti, Rohan, Suraj and the family, holding close the light Varun has left behind.

With love, raja.

“Tiger” is gone for me. In his short life, Varun inspired 100s of people and now he is on a journey to inspire 1000s more. A boy with a big smile, a beautiful heart and a courage of a mountain. Hindu culture says that a person takes multiple births before going onto his/her final journey - i hope our paths will cross again so that i can ask you “Tiger how are you doing” and you can reply with your big smile “i am doing goood”, just like how we did it in numerous scouts camps. Keep smiling and keep inspiring wherever you are !!! - Bhupesh Agrawal

Our dear Varun,

Izzy and I had the greatest pleasure of meeting you this past December and sharing such a memorable night together. We will never forget how strong your energy was when you entered the restaurant that very night. For never showing weakness and always focusing on the moment. The excitement you had in your eyes to just be present with the world. Your soul will forever live in a special place in our hearts. 

We think of you often and speak of how your radiating smile will continue to brighten the world. You are so loved, and will be so dearly missed.

You always told me you wanted Blaze and Charlie to be the best of brothers & I will make sure they meet one day. I will forever cherish the special connection you had with us.

You will forever be an example of strength, courage & an inspiration to us. We are so proud of everything you’ve accomplished & we will never ever forget you, Varun. 

With all the love in the universe, 
Veda & Izzy

A smiling face,  funny, an infectious positive attitude, super bright and  always willing to help, that is what Varun embodies! While his body has left us, he will always remain in my heart.

My deepest condolences to Jyothi, Suraj and Rohit.  May God give you the strength to get through these trying times. Varun has left such a big impact on us and we miss him so much.

Just received this absolutely heartbreaking news. Varun has been a pillar of courage and positivity through all the challenges he faced in these past years. In his short 15 years, he showed us what real model of bravery looks like. Being called so early truly means he is so deeply loved by God, and his place is rightfully among the best in heaven.
Jyothi, Suraj, Rohan, you have all shown immense courage and strength as a family and put up the best fight with unwavering love. Our prayers are with you that God may grant you the strength and patience to bear this unimaginable loss. Sending you lots of love and keeping you in our thoughts. - Seemab and Samina

We are  deeply saddened to hear of Varun’s passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. We often think of Varun and will always remember him through squash, his courage, and his bright, inspiring spirit. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

May you find comfort in the memories you shared and in the love that surrounds you. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. May god give you strength.

Dear Varma Family,

Our family was so sad to hear of Varun's passing. We live in the same neighborhood that you do, and I remember my younger son,  Jack, running home one day and telling me that he'd learned a new sport from a "kid named Varun," - it was Cricket. Jack told me that he had fun with Varun when they played together as kids and he admired his fighting spirit, positive attitude, and his goals of helping others with events like "Cram the Stands." He impacted so many people in his short time on earth. He will be missed and fondly remembered.  Hugs to you all as you navigate this loss. ❤️ The Richards Family (the Halloween house).

Dear Jyoti and Suraj,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on sweet Varuns passing. He was an angel who shone brightly on earth and now will light up the heavens. He was constantly in my prayers as Azmy and Shabbu would update us on his condition. May God allow you to gather strength and resilience to bear this loss. You both are remarkable parents and our deepest prayers are with you 🤲🏼💕

Dear Jyotji and Suraj, I’m so sorry for your loss. We would receive updates from Shabnam on his health. May GOD gather you close to him and comfort you with memories of your beautiful son. Ameen. Please know we are praying for you all. 
Hugs and duas, Zahra and Usman Mughal

I’m out of town otherwise I would have attended the memorial service.

With heartfelt condolences, we keep Varun’s family in our thoughts and prayers. We are deeply saddened by the news about young  Varun. His courage and the
graceful love of his family were evident to all of us. Our hearts go
out to his parents and loved ones — may they find strength and comfort
during this difficult time.

We extend our deepest condolences to Jyoti, Suraj, Rohan and family during this unimaginable time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as we join in mourning the loss of such a special young soul.

Though his time with us was far too short, Varun touched many lives with his kindness, laughter, and light. His memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

May Varun rest in peace, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and strength to all who loved him.

Dear Jyoti,

I was heartbroken to hear about the passing of your son. I can’t begin to imagine the pain you and your family are going through. Please accept my deepest and most heartfelt condolences.

You’ve always brought such warmth and kindness to those around you, and it’s clear that your family reflects that same spirit. I hope you’re surrounded by love and support as you navigate this unimaginable loss.

Please know that I'm thinking of you and your family during this time. If there's anything I can do (perhaps at work), I'm here.

With sympathy and care,
Vladimir Romaso

The first time I met Varun we were casually arguing about schools. We were at Chinmaya mission homeless shelter cooking and decided to take a break. My friend and I went to one school and Varun went to another school, we were casually debating about which one was better with him. He was really persistent about his school and he started roasting our school. We all had a good laugh and started roasting each other's schools. In the end someone called us to keep cooking. I distinctively remember him saying to us "This isn't over yet." I will always remember him for never giving up... 

With lots of love,
Aarohi Nair
Hugs from Lekshmi, Prashanth, and Ishita

Little Varun is how we will always remember you. We met you for the first time right after we got married. You had apparently prepared a questionnaire for Rini. In your excitement, you ended up telling us a million stories of your travel, and all your favourite food items. But you never made it to the questions in your questionnaire for the new member of the family. We met only once. But we can’t stop thinking of you. We will miss you. Wherever you are, keep smiling. Our warrior child, you fought hard and well. Now, rest. 

Lots of love, 
Ashwin and Rini

Dear Suraj, Jyoti, Rohan, Chandramama, Indrachechi and the rest of the clan and all of the Varma family friends, Varun’s classmates …..

Varun , to me was an incredibly brave soul who gave the malady that he suffered from a good fight for, I reckon, about five years now. 

As a fellow traveler, I acknowledge and understand his effort. 

I’m sure he is in a happier place now and is looking down happily at all of us. 

God bless Varun. 

Rajan and all of us here in Madras.

Varun was a true Champ! - his strength and courage will always inspire us.  Jyoti & Suraj - may you find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives in the hearts of all who knew him.

Dear Jyothi and Suraj, 

I am extremely sorry for your loss. May Almighty give you the strength and I pray that you find comfort in his good memories. Your family is in my prayers and thoughts.

I played minecraft with him a few years back. He was always so positive despite his situation. The world lost a great person.

I met Varun when he was part of the kids cooking group at Chinmaya all through his middle school years . He always impressed me with his ready smile and gentle manners . I didn’t know he had cancer until last year as he always smiled and was up to doing everything he wanted to do . His perseverance and positivity is an inspiration to all . We will miss Varun . My prayers and thoughts are with Varun and the family . OM Shanthi

We bonded with Varun and his family over retrievers, and it was clear to us from the beginning that his love for dogs reflected the gentleness of his heart. During his daily commute to school, we admired the courageous and positive way he carried himself, even in the simplest of moments. Whenever we met—whether at the bus stop or just out in the neighborhood—he never failed to greet us with a smile and a friendly hello. He truly left joy in the hearts of those around him.

Dear family and friends of Varun

Varun is my friend and will always be my friend. He smiled through all the pain, grief and sadness. No matter what, he was smiling. He has taught us all to smile and at least show on the outside to be happy. His pleasantness always made us smile too and it was super contagious. Also some fun facts, He LOVED soccer and fifa and whenever I came to his house we would play it. No matter what mood I was in I always left smiling. Varun is a beacon of light and positivity and we ought to learn something from it. He lived his life to the fullest and took every chance he got to be happy and positive. Rest in peace buddy and fly high!

First time i saw him on his 3rd birthday in which he is cutting a cake which is in the shape of a tractor ( or some heavy vehicle ). I remember he likes that vehicle very much and i think we also presented him a toy similar to that

Next instance he came to our home when he was 6 years. That time my 2 year child was also very naughty. Whichever toy he was picking, my child use to take and keep it away. Atlast i remember him asking " Shall i take this piece of paper" to my child which also he didn't allow 

I heard his disease couple of years back but could not speak any thing with any one as i will get emotional on such instances. 

Even i could not put a condolence message in group or personal messages as i feel this feelings are much beyond that

Rest in peace Varun...

Have a great journey with ur Grandma

Dear Varun, you were a ray of sunshine with your cheeky smile, you were a tower of strength with your resilience in the tough fight. Go with peace and pain free, and shine bright among the stars.

Varun, superman, bionic man ! It's incredibly unfair that an angel like you was taken from us so soon. I know you're watching, probably laughing at our struggle to accept your passing. Why did you leave us so early? You were the embodiment of positivity, with the widest, most radiant smile in every picture and an inexhaustible spirit that could get anything done. You will be missed every single moment, but rest assured, you will be equally remembered every moment. Your memory will inspire us to do better, to be courageous, and most importantly, to keep sharing love with everyone. Still, I can't help but scream and ask, "Why? Why?"

Everyone leaves behind a legacy. Varun's legacy is a story of courage. For over two years, my team at Wave Tutor and I had the privilege of working with him and witnessed nothing but resilience and determination to further his education. We stood in awe as he refused to let his illness stand in the way of his future. 

Varun never once backed down from cancer. Here in Texas, we have watched him turn his battle into a mission to raise awareness for others facing similar challenges, doing so selflessly. Varun's work in "Cram the Stands" and the Sam Day Buddy Run helped raise tens of thousands of dollars to make a difference. That's a greater change in the world than many of us can hope to achieve in our lives.

His perseverance throughout his life embodied the very essence of fearlessness. We will forever remember his legacy of courage, and it has been a true honor to have witnessed his unwavering bravery. Thank you, Varun. May he rest in peace.

OBITUARY

Varun Suraj Varma

17 August, 2010 – 24 August, 2025

Finley-Sunset Hills Mortuary & Sunset Hills Memorial Park

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