Kirk Varnedoe (1946-2003), art historian and former chief curator of painting and sculpture at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), was one of the best-known advocates for modern and contemporary art. He deepened and diversified MoMA’s collections through masterful acquisitions, and strengthened its connections to contemporary art through innovative exhibitions such as Artist’s Choice. Mr. Varnedoe’s legacy is one of transformation. He introduced a broad audience to the importance and enduring vitality of art, and demonstrated that a great museum could honor its past without being captive to it.