Obituary of Richard Dennis Vargo

It is with great sorrow that we announce, Rick Vargo, born on March 11, 1951, took his famous ribs on a heavenly tour on September 15, 2024. Known far and wide as the heart, soul and legendary cook behind “The Rib Rustler”. Award winning at the Pig Gig and cook offs across the country. He enjoyed spending time with his BBQ crew. More importantly it wasn’t just his food that left a mark, it was his ability to make everyone feel like family. Aside from his passion for cooking, Rick worked in the automotive industry for over 40 years and taught Auto Mechanics for 10 years. 

 

Rick’s laughter, his stories, his passion for good food, and his desire to live will be remembered by everyone lucky enough to cross his path. Rick was married 50 years (Sept. 14) to his beloved wife Katie Vargo. He is survived by his wife Katie, his favorite daughter Kimberly (TJ) McClellan, three grandchildren that were his joy Ava, Elliana and “Son” McClellan, his bonus grandchild McKayla Heintzelman, his sisters and brothers; Kay (Mark) Pfeiffer, Gail Vargo, Laura (Mike) Beyer, Patti (Mike) Grosskopf, Barb (Dave) Warren, Mike (Trudy) Hogan and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother and father Joseph and Norene Vargo, his brother Larry Vargo, his niece Julie Beyer, his mother and father-in-law Harry and Marie Hogan. 

 

In his 10-year-old granddaughter Ava’s words, “I know we all have lots of memories with him. I think I speak for everyone when I say we wish we had more. I think we can all say we love him, whether or not you’re his friend, his family, or his neighbor. I think it’s safe to say we all miss him”.

 

In Rick’s honor, raise a rib, share a laugh, and never forget to make the people around you feel like family. That’s what he did best. A private prayer ceremony was officiated by Sam (Joyce) McClellan. Celebration of life to be announced at a later date. 

 

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