Pedro Evenor Vargas Jr.

Pedro Evenor Vargas, proudly known as Pete Vargas, was born in 1933 in Corinto, Nicaragua. As a young boy, he immigrated to the United States with his mother and brother in search of opportunity and freedom. America became his home, and Pete embraced it with gratitude, loyalty, and deep pride, living a life that reflected the values of hard work, service, and devotion to family.

Athletic in his youth, Pete played soccer and other sports in high school. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he remained a loyal fan of the San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants, and Golden State Warriors—teams that reflected his enduring pride in the Bay Area and the state he loved.

Pete grew up in San Francisco, California, where he attended school and graduated from high school. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call of duty when he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. Serving his adopted country with honor and courage, Pete carried immense pride in his military service. He was honorably discharged in 1955, forever holding his service to the United States as one of his greatest honors.

Pete lived and worked in San Francisco and Dinuba, California. He spent many years as a warehouse worker at UPS in San Francisco and later served as a night watchman and night custodian in Tulare and Fresno Counties. Known for his unwavering work ethic and reliability, Pete believed strongly in providing for his family and contributing honestly to his community—values he passed down through generations.

Pete found joy in reading, gardening, yard work, beach visits, and sharing stories of his childhood in Nicaragua. Above all, he cherished time with his grandchildren, whether watching action movies together or simply enjoying their company. His playful sense of humor and warm spirit made him a beloved presence in their lives.

Pete and Frances raised six children: Pete Vargas Jr., Margaret Martinez, Richard Vargas, Angie Chavez, David Vargas, and Rosemary Gonzalez. A devoted family man, Pete was the proud grandfather of more than 40 grandchildren, as well as numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. His family was his greatest legacy and source of joy.

A man of strong Christian faith, Pete attended Dinuba First Assembly of God Church. He lived as a man of integrity—hardworking, resilient, loyal, trustworthy, kind, gentle, and loving. He was a strong provider, a fully engaged father and grandfather, and a proud American who believed deeply in faith, family, and country.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Evenor Pedro Vargas Jr. and Adelaida Simona; his younger brother, Tony Vargas; and his beloved wife of 65 years, Frances Vargas, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 83. Pete and Frances met through one of his Army buddies, and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

Pedro “Pete” Vargas will be remembered as a patriot, a devoted family man, and a man who lived with honor. His life stands as a testament to the American dream and to the enduring strength of love, service, and faith. His legacy will continue through the many generations he helped shape and the countless lives he touched.

A visitation will be held on January 29, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Dopkins Funeral Chapel, located at 189 South J Street, Dinuba, CA 93618.

A service will take place on January 30, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:45 am at the same venue.

Burial will follow on January 30, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm at Smith Mountain Cemetery, located at 42088 Rd 100, Dinuba, CA 93618.