Jesse Joseph Vargas

Jesse Joseph Vargas passed away on the morning of July 7, 2019 in Asheville NC. He was 60 years old. He was the husband of Ruth Vanessa Vargas, father of Jaeden and Elianah Vargas, and Corina Lopez, father-in-law to Joshua Ray Lopez, and Grandfather of Joshua Ray Lopez, Jr. 

Jesse spent his childhood with his family in Southern California.  He was raised in Imperial County by Malaquias Vargas and Florentina Mendez Vargas who preceded him in death along with his siblings Maria, Rosa, Ralph, Gloria and Dolores, all who remain.  

Jesse moved with his family to Weaverville, North Carolina in 1996 to be closer to Ruth’s mother following the death of her father.  Supporting family was of utmost importance to Jesse. He spent his life as a dedicated husband and father. He lived  by the motto “Family First”, and this was reflected every day. Whether working diligently to support the family or spending time with each family member supporting their activities and interests, Jesse always put family first.  He was able to take an idea and if it helped improve the family or individual’s quality of life, he would plan it, create it, build it, and make it happen. 

Jesse’s commitment to others was also reflected by his dedication to his work and friends.  He never met a person he did not try to befriend, and once a friend, would rise to any occasion as a true friend in life does.  His sense of humor, creativity and practicality made him an easy person to love. He considered his friends from Imperial County as well as his friends in North Carolina “like family”, sharing his skills and passion with so many. 

While Jesse has accomplished many things in both his personal and professional  life, the lessons he shared of appreciating everything that life has to offer and being kind to others will be the ones we will always remember.  

A memorial mass will be held Thursday, July 11, 2019 at noon at the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Asheville. A celebration of his life will be held later in the summer. 

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