Laura Lucile Varas Naumann's Obituary
Laura Lucile Varas Naumann, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away surrounded by family after a life of faith, love, and devotion. She was born on May 7, 1947, in San Bernardo, Chile, to Raul Varas Contreras and Olga Santibañez Pérez.
Laura was raised in the Catholic faith until her family met the missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and chose to be baptized. The Varas family became among the pioneer members of the Church in Chile, a legacy that Laura carried with humility and devotion throughout her life
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It was through the Church that Laura met her eternal companion, Julio Naumann. Julio fondly recounted how, upon first entering a Church meeting, he noticed a beautiful young woman leading the music and felt impressed to return. His decision to continue attending eventually led to his baptism and, not long after, to marriage with Laura on June 28, 1965.
Together, Laura and Julio built a strong family foundation. After the heartbreak of losing their first child at birth, they were blessed with six more children. In 1976, with three children in tow, the family traveled to the United States to be sealed as an eternal family in the Provo Utah Temple—an experience that planted the desire to eventually make the United States their permanent home.
In 1979, with four children, the Naumann family emigrated from Chile and settled in Orem, Utah. They maintained a deep love for their homeland but were profoundly grateful for the opportunities their new country offered. Two more children were born after their arrival, completing their family of eight.
Laura dedicated her life to her family and her faith. She and Julio worked diligently during their years in Utah and later enjoyed retirement in Mesa, Arizona. As her health declined with the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, Julio lovingly cared for her with unfailing devotion. Even as memory faded, Laura always felt surrounded by love, especially from her husband and family.
Laura is survived by her husband, Julio, and their children Jared, Siegfried, Helmuth, Sebastian, Cecile, and David, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love and faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Raul and Olga, her sisters Carmen and Mirtha, her brother Pancho, and her infant child.
Laura will be remembered for her deep faith, her gentleness, and her devotion to her family. Her life was a testament to endurance, love, and the blessings of covenants made with God.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 29, at 2:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 2161 W Grays Dr., Lehi, Utah 84043. An open house will follow from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the same location.
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