John J. Vars

John J. Vars, 79, of Brownville, NY, passed away on May 30, 2025, at Samaritan Medical Center.

He was born on February 13, 1946, in Carthage, NY, the son of Kenneth and Pauline (Siedlecki) Vars. John graduated from Indian River High School in 1964 and proudly served in the United States Army from 1964 until his honorable discharge in 1967. Following his military service, he attended Jefferson Community College from 1968 to 1970, studying Business Administration.

John began his career working in shipping and receiving at The Globe Store in Watertown. He later worked for Zimmerman Construction in Watertown from 1973 until 1978, and for Markoff Construction at Fort Drum, from 1980 to 1982. He was also employed by Great American in Watertown, NY, and spent a year working in the carpenter shop at Fort Drum. In 1984, he began a position as a Preventative Maintenance Worker with the Department of Defense at Fort Drum, from which he retired in July 2005.

A devoted New York Yankees fan, John also had a passion for flower gardening and cherished more than 40 years of companionship with his beloved dogs.

On February 14, 1980, he married Barbara Bossuot of Carthage. The couple briefly lived in an apartment above Gorri’s Market on Arsenal Street in Watertown before settling in Brownville in May 1981, where they built a life together.

John is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, and his cherished canine companion, Luna. He is also survived by his siblings: Stanley and Maria Vars, James Vars, Thomas Vars, Kenneth and Mary Vars, all of Florida, and Peter and Amy Vars of Fairport, NY; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Alexis, who passed away at a young age.

Arrangements are with Johnson Funeral Home in Dexter. In accordance with John’s wishes, he will be cremated. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the SPCA of Jefferson County or Hospice of Jefferson County. Online condolences may be left at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

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