William Varley

William Varley, 76 of Norman, died Sunday, August 26, in Norman. He was born January 8, 1936, to Gerald and Marjorie Thompson Varley in Watertown, New York. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1953 and graduated from Cornell University in 1959. He received an MBA from the University of Oklahoma in 1982.

LtCol. Varley served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1980. He was stationed at Ft. Sill for several years, served two tours in Vietnam, two tours in Germany and taught ROTC at Niagara University.

After retiring from the Army, Bill went to work for the University of Oklahoma. He held several positions while he was there including the Director of Research Development. All of his children graduating from OU definitely made him proud.

Though he was from northern New York, Bill fell in love with Oklahoma when he was stationed at Ft. Sill. He was an avid sports fan, especially baseball, and liked attending all of the different athletics at OU. He enjoyed his time spent on the golf course, but his passion was truly in the water. As an avid swimmer, he set All State records in high school.

He is survived by his wife, Gail of the home; his son Michael of Norman; two daughters, Terry Varley of Edmond and Linda Ross and her husband Dr. John Ross of Edmond; two grandchildren, Ashley Kate Ross and Brian James Ross.

There will be private a memorial service with inurnment at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

The family has suggested a charity of choice as appropriate for memorial contributions. In his honor, take your family to lunch. Bill would be delighted as that was so very important to him.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care the Primrose Funeral Service.