Roz Varon's Heartbreak: Remembering Sara & Her Legacy

Sabrina Halvorson DVM 17 May 2025

How does a parent cope with the unimaginable loss of a child? Roz Varon, the beloved former ABC7 Chicago traffic anchor, is facing this heartbreaking reality with remarkable strength and a determination to honor her daughter, Sara Beth Janz, in a way that will leave a lasting legacy.

Just weeks after what seemed like a routine biopsy, Sara Beth Janz, the 29-year-old daughter of Roz Varon and Edward Janz, passed away. The news sent shockwaves through the Chicago community, where Varon had been a fixture on morning television for decades. Viewers had, in a way, watched Sara grow up alongside her mother, sharing in the milestones and joys of her life. The suddenness of Sara's passing, following what was initially perceived as a normal medical procedure, has left many grappling with the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate. The details surrounding the biopsy and Sara's subsequent decline remain largely private, but the grief and outpouring of support for the Varon family are profoundly public.

Category	Information
Full Name	Sara Beth Janz
Age at Death	29 years old
Parents	Roz Varon and Edward Janz
Siblings	Amy (Neomi Luna) Janz and Brian Janz
Residence	Lived in New Mexico with her boyfriend; moved there in January.
Occupation	Proficient photographer and video editor (established herself as such).
Education	Alumnus (specific school not mentioned)
Legacy	Memorial scholarship fund established in her name through @chi_natas.
Fundraising Event	"Sara's Pilates for a Purpose" with @superiorpilates; 100% of proceeds go to the scholarship fund.
Mother's Career	Roz Varon: Former ABC7 Chicago traffic anchor; first anchor in the country to bring traffic rush hour reporting to morning news; joined ABC 7 Chicago in April 1989. Previously a retired WLS traffic anchor.
Father	Edward Janz
Roz Varon's Husband	Glenn Varon (married in November 2005 at Marshall Field and honeymooned in Hawaii). Previously referred to as Glen Janz.
Roz and Glenn Varon's Children	Sara Janz and Colin Kedzie
Reference	ABC7 Chicago

In the face of this immense sorrow, Roz Varon has chosen to channel her grief into a powerful force for good. She has established the Sara Beth Janz Memorial Scholarship Fund, a testament to her daughter's vibrant spirit and a way to support aspiring young individuals in pursuing their dreams. This scholarship, managed through @chi_natas, will provide opportunities for students, ensuring that Sara's memory lives on through their achievements. The outpouring of support for the scholarship fund has been overwhelming, with friends, family, and even complete strangers touched by Sara's story and Varon's unwavering dedication to honoring her daughter's life.

One of the key fundraising initiatives for the scholarship is "Sara's Pilates for a Purpose," a special event organized in collaboration with @superiorpilates. Roz Varon expressed her gratitude to her @abc7chicago family for inviting her to share details about this event on the 11 am news. The event promises to be a meaningful tribute to Sara, combining her passion for fitness with a commitment to supporting future generations. What makes this initiative particularly impactful is that 100% of the proceeds will directly benefit the Sara Beth Janz Memorial Scholarship Fund. This ensures that every dollar raised will contribute to creating lasting opportunities for deserving students.

The "Pilates for a Purpose" event is more than just a fundraiser; it's a celebration of Sara's life and the values she embodied. It reflects her commitment to health, well-being, and empowering others. By participating in this event, individuals are not only contributing to a worthy cause but also joining a community of people who are committed to honoring Sara's memory and making a positive impact on the world. Roz Varon's involvement in the event underscores her dedication to ensuring that her daughter's legacy continues to inspire and uplift others.

Roz Varon's journey through grief is a testament to the enduring power of a mother's love. Her social media posts, filled with both heartache and gratitude, offer a glimpse into her emotional landscape. She shared, with a heavy heart, the last picture she took with Sara, a poignant reminder of the bond they shared. She also expressed her deep appreciation for the outpouring of prayers, concern, and love from her community, acknowledging the vital role that support has played in helping her navigate this incredibly difficult time. Her words resonate with anyone who has experienced loss, offering a sense of shared understanding and hope.

Varon's openness about her grief has resonated deeply with her audience, many of whom have followed her career for decades. They remember watching Sara grow up, and they feel a personal connection to the family's loss. The comments sections on her social media posts are filled with messages of support, condolences, and shared experiences of grief. This collective outpouring of sympathy highlights the power of community in times of sorrow and the importance of acknowledging and validating the pain of loss. Varon's vulnerability has created a space for open and honest conversations about grief, helping others feel less alone in their own experiences.

The upcoming Mother's Day holds particular significance for Roz Varon, as she faces the holiday without her beloved daughter. She anticipates the heartache and acknowledges the challenges of navigating such a momentous occasion without Sara by her side. However, she also draws strength from the love and support of her friends and family. Her ability to acknowledge the pain while also expressing gratitude for the support she receives is a testament to her resilience and her commitment to finding light even in the darkest of times. Her honesty about her emotional state is a powerful reminder that grief is a complex and multifaceted process, and there is no right or wrong way to experience it.

Varon's reflections on Mother's Day highlight the profound impact that the loss of a child can have on a parent. It's a loss that forever alters the landscape of family and tradition. The holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions become painful reminders of the absence of a loved one. Yet, Varon's commitment to honoring Sara's memory and continuing to live a meaningful life is an inspiration to others who are navigating similar losses. She demonstrates that it is possible to find joy and purpose even in the midst of grief, and that the love for a child never truly fades away.

Prior to Sara's passing, Varon had shared updates about her daughter's health, noting that she had undergone a procedure and was expected to return home. While awaiting the results, Varon expressed optimism and gratitude that a significant hurdle had been cleared. This update, shared before the tragic turn of events, underscores the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. It also highlights the challenges of navigating medical uncertainties and the emotional rollercoaster that families often experience during times of illness.

The earlier update, filled with hope and relief, now carries a different weight in light of Sara's passing. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of medical challenges, there is always room for hope and optimism. However, it also underscores the importance of being prepared for the unexpected and cherishing the time we have with our loved ones. Varon's experience is a poignant reminder that life can change in an instant, and it's crucial to appreciate the precious moments we have with those we care about.

Roz Varon and her husband, Glenn Varon, were immensely proud of Sara, who had grown into a vibrant and accomplished young woman. Sara lived in New Mexico with her boyfriend and had established herself as a talented photographer and video editor. Her move to New Mexico in January marked a new chapter in her life, filled with promise and potential. Her passion for her craft and her adventurous spirit were evident in her work and her life choices. She was a loving daughter, a cherished sister, and a beloved friend.

Sara's accomplishments as a photographer and video editor are a testament to her creativity and her dedication to her craft. She had a keen eye for detail and a unique ability to capture the beauty and essence of the world around her. Her work reflected her passion for storytelling and her commitment to using her talents to make a positive impact. Her move to New Mexico was an opportunity to pursue her artistic vision and explore new creative avenues. Her loss is not only a personal tragedy for her family and friends but also a loss for the creative community.

The bond between Roz Varon and Sara was evident in their interactions and the love they shared. Varon often spoke of Sara with immense pride and affection, highlighting her accomplishments and her kind heart. The loss of this close and loving relationship is undoubtedly devastating, and Varon's grief is palpable in her words and actions. However, her determination to honor Sara's memory and keep her spirit alive is a testament to the enduring power of their bond.

Varon's social media posts often featured photos of Sara, capturing her joyful spirit and her infectious laughter. These glimpses into their lives offered a sense of connection to Varon's audience, who felt like they had watched Sara grow up alongside her. The outpouring of condolences and support following Sara's passing reflects the impact that their relationship had on the community. It's a reminder that even in the digital age, genuine human connection can transcend screens and touch the hearts of others.

Roz Varon's journey is a reminder of the importance of cherishing family, celebrating life, and finding strength in the face of adversity. Her dedication to honoring Sara Beth Janz's memory through the scholarship fund and the "Pilates for a Purpose" event is an inspiration to us all. It's a testament to the enduring power of love and the human capacity for resilience. As Varon navigates this difficult chapter, she continues to offer hope and inspiration to others, reminding us that even in the midst of grief, it is possible to find meaning and purpose.

The scholarship fund established in Sara Beth Janz's name will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the lives of countless students. It will provide them with the financial resources and the encouragement they need to pursue their dreams and make a positive contribution to the world. In this way, Sara's legacy will live on through the achievements and the successes of those who benefit from the scholarship. It's a fitting tribute to a young woman who was full of life, passion, and a commitment to making a difference.

The support Roz Varon has received from her @abc7chicago family, her friends, and her community is a testament to the impact she has had on their lives. Her decades of service as a traffic anchor have made her a familiar and trusted face in Chicago homes. Her warmth, her professionalism, and her genuine connection to her audience have earned her a special place in their hearts. Now, in her time of need, they are rallying around her, offering their support and their love.

Roz Varon's career at ABC7 Chicago has been marked by numerous accomplishments and accolades. She is known as the first anchor in the country to bring traffic rush hour reporting to the morning news, a pioneering move that revolutionized local television. Her innovative approach to traffic reporting and her ability to connect with viewers have made her a beloved figure in the Chicago media landscape. Her dedication to her profession and her commitment to her community have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.

Beyond her professional achievements, Roz Varon is known for her kindness, her compassion, and her unwavering dedication to her family and friends. She is a role model for aspiring journalists and a beacon of hope for those who are navigating difficult times. Her ability to balance her demanding career with her personal life is a testament to her strength and her resilience. She is a true inspiration to all who know her.

Roz Varon's husband, Glenn Varon, has been a constant source of support and strength throughout her career and her personal life. The couple married in a gala reception at Marshall Field in November 2005 and honeymooned in Hawaii. Their relationship is a testament to the power of love and commitment. Together, they have raised two children, Sara Janz and Colin Kedzie, and created a loving and supportive family environment.

Glenn Varon's unwavering support has been instrumental in Roz Varon's success. He has been her biggest cheerleader, her confidant, and her partner in life. Their relationship is a model of partnership and mutual respect. Together, they have weathered life's storms and celebrated its joys. Their love for each other and their children is the foundation of their strong and resilient family.

The outpouring of love and support for the Varon family is a reminder of the power of community in times of sorrow. Friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers have come together to offer their condolences and their assistance. This collective display of compassion is a testament to the human capacity for empathy and the importance of standing together in times of need. The Varon family is grateful for the support they have received and for the knowledge that they are not alone in their grief.

The comments section on Roz Varon's social media posts are filled with messages of sympathy and support. People from all walks of life have shared their own experiences of loss and offered words of encouragement. This online community has become a source of comfort and connection for Varon, providing her with a virtual shoulder to lean on during this difficult time. The power of social media to connect people and offer support in times of need is undeniable.

The flowers that Sara had given Roz, blooming upon her return home, serve as a poignant symbol of life and beauty in the midst of loss. They are a reminder of Sara's joyful spirit and the love that she shared with her mother. The flowers represent the enduring nature of love and the hope that even in the face of death, beauty can still emerge. They are a symbol of resilience and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

The sunset ceremony in Maui, planned before Sara's passing, now carries a different weight. The beach where Roz and Glenn honeymooned 10 years ago will now serve as a place of remembrance and reflection. The presence of Roz's daughter and her parents will provide comfort and support during this difficult time. The ceremony will be a celebration of life, love, and the enduring bonds of family. It will be a time to honor Sara's memory and to find solace in the beauty of the natural world.

Roz Varon's invitation to join the ceremony virtually, through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Periscope, reflects her desire to share her journey with her community. She understands the importance of connection and the power of collective mourning. By sharing her experience, she is offering comfort and support to others who are navigating similar losses. Her openness and vulnerability are a testament to her strength and her commitment to helping others.

The heartfelt message from loyal ABC7 news viewers, expressing their shared experience of watching Sara grow up, is a reminder of the impact that Roz Varon has had on the Chicago community. Her decades of service have made her a trusted and beloved figure in their lives. They feel a personal connection to her and her family, and they share in their grief. Their message of support and sympathy is a testament to the power of community and the enduring bonds of human connection.

The flowers serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of love and the beauty that can emerge even in the midst of grief. They are a symbol of hope and resilience, and they offer a sense of comfort and solace to Roz Varon and her family. They are a reminder that even though Sara is no longer physically present, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Roz Varon's journey is a testament to the human capacity for love, resilience, and hope. Her dedication to honoring Sara Beth Janz's memory and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world are an inspiration to us all. As she navigates this difficult chapter, she continues to offer hope and inspiration to others, reminding us that even in the midst of grief, it is possible to find meaning and purpose.