Jacob Varner was born on May 13, 1993 entering the world in a big way at 11 lbs. 6 oz. He grew up as the middle child between his older brother Ethan and younger sister Amber. He grew up in Gladstone attending school K- 12 in the area and making lifelong friends.

Jacob was involved in sports including T-ball graduating to basketball, baseball, soccer and shot put in high school. He was asked to try out for track in high school, competing in shot put and he set some records that year, but just didn’t feel like doing it again.

His parents said that sometimes they would gnash their teeth because they felt Jacob had a lack of motivation and not using his full potential. But that would go away when Jacob felt motivated about something he excelled! Such as, coming from a family of dedicated hunters, Jacob went hunting every year. The hunting trips was a special time spent with his dad. Jacob was also an avid «gamer» playing WOW (world of war craft video game among others) Jacob also enjoyed staying up late with sister Amber giggling and talking and not to mention the late night food runs to Rigobertos.

He was always active, riding bikes with his brother everywhere. He was confident, happy and known for his smirk and smile, described as friendly and sincere able make friends wherever he went. When he was younger he would go to the park and play for hours with all the other children. He could join a group of children playing effortlessly and seemingly instantly. Jacob was also a defender. More than once he stood up for others when they were being picked on. Maybe this was due to Jacob’s height, known as the «big» friend that you wanted to have your back. He had a kind heart and did not tolerate bullying.

Typical dress for Jacob was oversized basketball shorts, high top tennis shoes and t-shirt. If it was snowing, then he might put on a zip up sweatshirt. Jeans were a rare occasion. In 2012 Jacob identified that he wanted to enlist in the Air Force. He reported on February 19, 2013. His mother says that she will never forget waiting with him at the MEPS center for them to call his name so he could gather with the other young men and women waiting to get on the transport for basic training hearing his name called His mother says that she will never forget waiting with him at the MEPS center for them to call his name so he could gather with the other young men and women waiting to get on the transport for basic training – hearing his name called – he gave his mom a big hug and she watched him walk away towards his new future.

Memorial Service for Jacob Varner who died on December 31, 2015 in Nevada will be Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 11 am at New Hope Community Church. There will be a reception to follow at the church. Committal with full Military Honors at Willamette National Cemetery at 3 pm.
Family suggests contributions to: USO Northwest-PDX
700 NE Airport Way, Suite 3112, Portland, Oregon 97218