Joseph Robert Varno

September 11, 1962 - November 15, 2019

Rensselaer- Joseph Robert Varno passed away surrounded by those he loved on Friday, November 15th, 2019 after a short illness. Joe was predeceased by his mother, Joann P. (DeGloria) Varno; his father, Robert F. Varno; and his older sister Michelle. He is survived by his loving brother Micheal Varno, his adoring nieces Emily and Natalie Barcia-Varno (Teresita) of Glenmont, his son Andrew Auffredou of Staten Island, and his loyal god sisters Jacqueline Wolfinger and Joann Cahalan. He was the nephew of Margaret Brown (Jack), Rosalie Desorbo (Ralph), James (Josephine), Thomas (Patricia), William (Mary Jane), Edward (Carol), and Father Jack Varno, and the half brother of Tim Bibens, Frank Bibens, and Sue Bibens Huston. Joe leaves behind many cousins and friends who loved him and will miss him dearly. Joe was born on September 11th, 1962 in Albany where he grew up on Elizabeth Street. He was a graduate of Bishop Maginn High School and attended Wagner College in Staten Island and HVCC. Joe later followed in the footsteps of his father and became a dedicated freelance painter in the area, starting his own business, Varno Painting. Joe had an indescribable passion for sports. He played football and baseball in high school. He was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and the Mets. He also loved going to jazz festivals with friends, attending sporting events, and gardening. Most importantly, Joe was determined to make a difference in the community. As his father had done, Joe was a coach, manager, and board member at American Little League in Albany. He mentored the young men and women on his team, providing them guidance through the power of perseverance, teamwork, and positivity. He hoped to create a better life for those he coached and it left a lasting impression on his players. The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses of the AMC Cardiac Unit for their outstanding care and support of Joe while he was there. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joe’s family Friday, November 22, 2019 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Funeral services Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 12:00 pm at St. Francis of Assisi Parish (South End Community 88 4th Street), Albany, NY where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY immediately following the Mass. To leave a message for the family, light a virtual candle, obtain directions or view other helpful services please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to American Little League or the Police Athletic League, 844 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12208.