Michael “Mike” Varnum, 77, State Center

Michael “Mike” Varnum, 77, of State Center, Iowa, passed away on June 15, 2023 at the Israel Family Hospice House in Ames, Iowa with his loving wife at his side.

Per Mike’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and no formal services will be held at this time. Memorials in Mike’s name may be directed to his family for a later designation. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Michael Frank Varnum was born February 14, 1946 to parents Lyle and Margaret (Vaughn) Varnum in Marshalltown, Iowa. He was raised by his mother Margaret Pfantz and step-father Theodore Pfantz. Mike attended school at West Marshall in State Center and graduated from West Marshall High School in 1964. Mike furthered his education and attended Marshalltown Community College, Ellsworth Community College and Grinnell College and received his Bachelor’s degree.

Mike Enlisted in the United States Airforce and served his country for four years. He was stationed at the Ramstein Airforce Base in Germany. He was later honorably discharged from service.

On February 2, 1991, Mike was united in marriage to the love of his life, Donna Varnum at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Together they called State Center their home. They raised their son Wyatt together. Mike worked for many years at Werner Enterprises before becoming “Mr. Mom” and helping to raise and care for his son Wyatt for 30 years. His family was everything to him and was always his number one priority. He also enjoyed to go for rides on his Harley Davidson Motorcycle and support his son Wyatt in his music career and cheer him on in his skateboarding ventures. He was proud of every moment of the 32 years that he and Donna had been happily married.

Mike is survived by his loving wife Donna. He is preceded in death by his son, Wyatt; his parents Lyle Varnum and Margaret and Theodore Pfantz; and his infant brother Danny Ray Varnum.