Marlin Robert Varble

MARLIN VARBLE

CARROLLTON – Marlin “Bubs” Robert Varble, 81, passed away at 9:03 a.m., Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Calhoun Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hardin. 

He was born on November 23, 1943 in Carrollton, Illinois, to the late Bert E. and Bessie V. (Wyatt) Varble.

He married the former Mary Gehlhausen on September 28, 1968, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Carrollton and together they shared nearly 57 years together.

Marlin was a proud Army veteran who carried the values of service with him. For many years, he worked at LaClede Steel, where his hard work earned him the respect of his coworkers and friends.

A true outdoorsman, Marlin found peace in hunting and fishing. When he wasn’t in the woods or the water, he could often be found tinkering with cars, sometimes taking them apart just for the challenge, whether they needed it or not. He had a gift for telling stories filling any room with laughter and memories that will never be forgotten.

Above all, his greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, who were truly the center of his world. His love for them was endless.

Surviving are his wife, Mary Varble of Carrollton; A daughter, Lori (Bruce) Gilbert of Greenfield; a son, Robert Varble and his companion William Thrift of Tampa, Florida; three grandchildren, Allison (Brenden) Knox of Jerseyville, Madison Gilbert of Greenfield, and Tristen (Dakota) Smith of Roodhouse; a sister, Melody VanWinkle of White Hall; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Benny Varble; two sisters, Sheila Alred, and Iris Gerber; as well as his mother and father in-law, George and Margaret Gehlhausen.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m., until time of funeral services at 12 p.m., Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville. 

Graveside services will immediately follow at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Carrollton, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the St. John’s Catholic School Building Fund.

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