Arthur Steven Varela

Arthur Steven Varela was born in Ventura, California on July 24, 1944 and died August 14, 2024. He was born to Rosie Orrante Varela and Henry Varela. His father Henry was a ranch foreman at John Thille Ranch where Arthur (Tuttie) grew up the second youngest of 15 kids. He had 7 brothers and 7 sisters. His favorite memories were going to work with his father on the ranch. He would often talk about being able to drive a tractor by age 7, his father would stand him in front of the steering wheel, put him in granny gear and he would drive up and down the rows of walnut trees while his trailer was being filled with sacks of walnuts. He had so many fond memories of his mother and his siblings growing up as one big family, especially all his sisters helping raise him and teaching him how to dance.

Arthur attended Ventura High School where he played football. As he got older he found his passion in karate and even helped teach kids karate. After high school he met Sue Bridges (Varela) and went on to have 5 children: Stephanie, Leon, Leann, Scott and Brian. He moved his family to Colorado where Arthur enjoyed camping, off roading and exploring the rocky mountains with his family.

He eventually made his way back home where he spent his remaining years living in beautiful Ojai, California.

Arthur is survived by siblings Virginia Villa, Tillie Magdaleno, Irene Mendoza, and Edmond (Bobo) Varela. He has 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.