Born in Chicago in May 1951 to Leslie and Dorothy (née Kozak) Varyu, Richard lived a life filled with creativity, humor, and deep devotion to those he loved. A proud graduate of the University of Illinois, brother of Delta Chi Fraternity and a lifelong member of the Fighting Illini family, he dedicated over 25 years of service to the Oakton College Fitness Center, a strong supporter of the college’s athletic programs.
Richard was a master storyteller with an encyclopedic knowledge of sports and music trivia. A die-hard Cubs fan, his vibrant personality was reflected in his eclectic collection of t-shirts and sneakers. As the owner of Varsitees, a custom apparel company he founded, he brought his creative spirit and artistic talent to life.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Jayne Arnone; his devoted brother, Donald Varyu (Linda Byron); and his nieces and nephews: Andy, David (Terry), Savannah, and Victoria; great-uncle to Christopher and Zoe. Preceded in death by his parents and sister, Shirley Hopp. Var was also the cherished son-in-law of Audrey (née Eime) Arnone Maixner and brother-in-law to Jill Arnone. He will be deeply missed by friends in Chicago, St. Louis, and around the world.
Richard’s legacy of love, laughter, and storytelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 9:00 AM at St. Clare of Assisi Parish (St. Cecilia Church 700 S. Meier Rd., Mt. Prospect, IL 60056). Funeral Mass to follow at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in memory of Richard A. Varyu to one of the below organizations:
- To support the Stem Cell Transplant Research and Education Fund, c/o Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 420 E. Superior Street, Rubloff Building, 9th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611 or https://give.northwestern.edu/campaigns/57449/donations/new?a=
- Oakton Athletics: https://www.oakton.edu/giving/athletic_fund_donation.php
- St. Clare of Assisi Parish, Mount Prospect IL: https://www.stclareofassisi.com/giving.html
