The Superior Express -

Varena L. Mechsner, 83, formerly of Meadowlark Continuing Care Retirement Community of Manhattan, died Jan. 18, 2021, at The Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice in Manhattan. She was born Feb. 1, 1937, in Jewell County to Ernest and Pearl (Gibbs) Blattner.

Varena was a 1955 graduate of Esbon High School. She furthered her education at Kansas State University in Manhattan graduating in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education.

On June 28, 1964, Varena was united in marriage with Max Mechsner at the United Brethren Church in Esbon.

Varena was a high school home economics teacher for many years, teaching in Glasco, Abilene and St. Petersburg, Fla. In her spare time you could find her reading or sewing.

Varena is survived by sister, Lyla Lowry (Harold), Stockton, and sister, Ruth Underwood (Dewey), Mankato; nephews, Stede Underwood (Tonia), Esbon, Van Underwood (Tara), McCune, Ervin Underwood (Kristin) Mankato; and nieces, Dee Lindamood (Matt), Olathe, Jane Pickering (Jason), Cushing, Okla., as well as many great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Pearl Blattner; and her husband, Max Mechsner, in 1996.

Cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date in the Esbon Cemetery, Esbon, with Pastor Rod Rose officiating.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Esbon Community Church, Esbon, in care of Melby Mortuary, P.O. Box 384, Mankato, Kan. 66956.

There will be no visitation.

For online condolences, please visit, http://www.Melbymortuary.com.