Introduction: Who is Roz Varon?
If you’ve lived in Chicago for any length of time, chances are you’ve heard the name Roz Varon maybe while sipping your coffee and watching the morning news, or stuck in traffic as her calm voice guided you through rush hour chaos.
Roz isn’t just a familiar face on TV. She’s a trailblazer, a survivor, a mother, and someone who’s touched thousands of lives with her work and personal story. This post is a tribute to her journey from making history on television to overcoming life’s toughest moments. We’ll also talk about Roz Varon age, career, and the powerful legacy she’s created.
Pioneering Traffic Reporter for ABC 7 Chicago
Revolutionizing Traffic Reporting (1989–2024)
Let’s rewind to 1989. Back then, traffic reports weren’t something you’d see during your morning news. But Roz Varon changed that and became the first TV traffic reporter in the United States. That’s right she brought rush hour traffic reports straight to your morning routine on ABC 7 Chicago.
For 35 years, Roz helped viewers navigate the city, whether it was rainy, snowy, or just another busy weekday. She made traffic updates feel less stressful and more like a friendly nudge from someone who cared. When thinking about the incredible length of her career, it also gives context to the question many people ask: What is Roz Varon age now?
A Chicago Icon
Roz isn’t just from Chicago she is Chicago. Born and raised here, she also stayed in the city for her college education and entire career. Her voice, her presence, and her dedication to the people of this city made her more than just a reporter; she became a local treasure. As people look back on her life and contributions, many find themselves curious about Roz Varon age and how long she’s been part of their lives.
A Career on the Road: Roz Varon’s Impact
Beyond Traffic: Transportation and “Weekender” Segments
Roz didn’t just stop at traffic. Over the years, she took on bigger stories covering transportation issues that mattered to everyday people. From CTA changes to roadwork updates, she made sure Chicagoans stayed informed.
And let’s not forget her “Weekender” segments, those quick, fun rundowns of local events happening around the city. It wasn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B. Roz reminded us to enjoy the journey.
As she reached different milestones, fans and followers often noted how gracefully she aged, which brought up more curiosity about Roz Varon age and how she stayed so energetic over the years.
Author: On the Road with Roz
Roz also took her stories off-screen and put them into a book. Her travel and adventure memoir, On the Road with Roz: Adventures in Travel and Life, is a heartwarming mix of life lessons, personal reflections, and exciting journeys.
If you haven’t read it yet, it’s worth picking up especially if you love stories about finding joy in the little things. Fans say her writing gives even more insight into Roz’s life, personality, and helps people reflect on Roz Varon age through the lens of experience and wisdom.
Personal Journey: Resilience and Advocacy
Breast Cancer Survivorship
In 2006, Roz was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. That alone is enough to knock anyone down but Roz stood tall and fought hard. And she didn’t just survive, she thrived, using her platform to spread hope and awareness.
She openly shared her journey with viewers, helping so many others facing the same battle feel seen and supported.
Her health battles were part of what led people to admire not just her strength, but also wonder how her attitude stayed so positive at Roz Varon age.
Advocacy and Awareness
Even after recovery, Roz kept advocating. Whether it was supporting cancer organizations or speaking publicly, she made it clear: you’re never alone, and there’s always hope. Her voice became one of encouragement and strength for many facing cancer.
Recent Events and Personal Loss
Retirement from ABC 7 Chicago (April 2024)
After 35 incredible years, Roz officially retired from ABC 7 in April 2024. It was a bittersweet moment viewers across Chicago felt like they were saying goodbye to a dear friend.
Her retirement was a well-deserved rest after decades of hard work, and a time for her to reflect, travel more, and focus on her personal life. Of course, her retirement also renewed questions about Roz Varon age, which stands at approximately 66 or 67 as of 2025, based on public information and interviews.
Coping with the Loss of Her Daughter, Sara
Tragically, Roz faced an unimaginable heartbreak in January 2025 the loss of her only daughter, Sara, who passed away at the young age of 29.
Roz has been honest and vulnerable in sharing her grief journey, and many people have found strength and healing in her openness. She’s reminded us all that grief is not something to hide, but something to walk through with love, support, and time.
It’s during this deeply emotional time that the strength she’s built over decades especially by the time of Roz Varon age today became even more evident.
Establishing a Legacy: The Sara Varon Memorial Scholarship Fund
To honor her daughter’s memory, Roz established the Sara Varon Memorial Scholarship Fund. This scholarship is not just a tribute, it’s a legacy.
Through it, Sara’s spirit lives on supporting young people in pursuing their dreams, just as Sara once did.
This touching gesture further solidified Roz’s image as not just a media figure but a community builder, an image that has only grown stronger with Roz Varon age and wisdom.
Roz Varon Today: A Legacy of Inspiration
Age and Continued Influence
Let’s talk clearly about something people often wonder: Roz Varon age. While her exact birthdate isn’t publicly available, in a 2012 speech, she said she was 54 at the time. That puts her birth year around 1957 or 1958, making her around 66 or 67 years old now in 2025.
But honestly? Roz proves that age is just a number. She continues to inspire people with her writing, speaking engagements, and heartfelt messages. Even after retiring from TV, her presence is still felt deeply in Chicago.
A Beloved Chicago Figure
Roz Varon’s story is more than just a news career. It’s about breaking barriers, facing challenges head-on, and sharing love and light with others.
She’s a Chicago legend not because of her job title, but because of the heart, courage, and grace she brought to everything she did. Her story is a reminder that no matter your age, especially when we talk about Roz Varon age, you can still inspire, still contribute, and still matter.
Also Read: Rauw Alejandro Height and Physical Profile: Everything You Need to Know About the Rising Latin Star
Final Thoughts
Roz Varon showed us that even in traffic jams, in hospital rooms, or in moments of deep sadness we can still move forward. Her story is one of strength, community, and unwavering spirit.
If there’s one thing we can all take away from her journey, it’s this: Use your voice. Share your story. And never stop being there for others.
