John “Jack” Francis Varick

Varick, John Francis Jr. “Jack”
Age 89, passed peacefully on May 9, 2015. Beloved father of Jill (Neil Palmer) Varick, Brian (Jenny) Varick, Jeff (Deedee) Varick and Wendy (Dave DeSmidt) Varick. Truly proud grandpa of Kelsey, Alex and Claire Palmer, Jaimee Ballogh, and Sabrina and Alexandra Varick.
He is further survived by his sister Rita (Tom) Frohna, and preceded in death by his parents John Francis Sr. and Anna, and sister Verona (Dick) Matheys.
Jack graduated from Marquette University, with a degree in Journalism interrupted by service in World War II. His first job was with the Associated Press in Milwaukee where the young reporter covered the infamous Senator Joseph McCarthy and interviewed Frank Lloyd Wright (who angrily called him a “scavenger” as he tried to update Wright’s future obituary).
Jack joined the newly emerging field of public relations with Barkin Herman & Associates Public Relations Counselors in 1955, and went on to become a Vice President and Account Executive. The Jos. Schlitz Brewing Company was his primary account until he left in 1980. He served as Publicity Director for the Great Circus Parade when it was revived by Ben Barkin from 1987 until 1997.
When Jack wasn’t reading his many books and magazines, he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jack’s name to the Circus World Foundation, Inc.
A private celebration of Jack’s life was held by his family.
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