Joe Vardian

Joe Vardian passed away peacefully at home on August 4, 2023.  His wife Elizabeth (Betty) was with him at the time of passing as well as several close friends.

Joe was born in Escanaba, MI on March 21, 1947 to Fanny and Anthony Vardian.

His fondest memories are of fishing  that they all did at his grandparents place in Kipling, being called Joey by his sister Rose, and spending time at “the 40” (a 40 acre camp) where they made maple syrup and went swimming.

He attended a Catholic Grade and High School and graduated from Holy Name Catholic School in 1966.

After graduation, he worked on the boats that sailed on the Great Lakes. Then 4 months later he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps.  Joe served his Country in Vietnam and was in the Marines from September 12, 1966 to September 11, 1968.   

Joe returned home from the war and began dating the love of his life, Betty Rose LeClaire.  They were married on October 14, 1972.  They had many adventures together, moving a few times over the years.  Joe was an avid hunter. Trips to Colorado on hunts for bear, elk and deer showed him the beauty in Colorado and in 2013, he and Betty moved there to their current home in Canon City, CO.  He was a “Joe of all Trades”.  He loved working on engines, welding, carpentry and pretty much anything that needed fixing, Joe was there to get it done.  Everyone in the neighborhood knew it was Joe when he came down the road in his 1965 Jeep.

Joe is survived by his wife, Betty Rose Vardian; his brother, David (Carol) Vardian; and his sister, Rose (Jerry) Newhause; and nephews, Kenny Vardian and Paul Newhause.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Fanny and Anthony Vardian; his uncles, Joe Laginya, Nick Vardian; nephew, David Vardian; and niece Karen Newhause.

Joe wished to be cremated and his remains will stay with Betty at their home.  A Celebration of Life and remembrance will be decided at a later date.

Correspondence with Betty is available by mail: 123 County Road 21,  Canon City, CO 81212. 

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