Southbridge: Juan "Johnny" Vargas-Rivera, 72, of Everett St., passed away on Sunday, Nov. 17 ^th, in his home surrounded by his loved ones.

He leaves his wife of 42 years, Noemi (Mendez-Rodriguez) Vargas-Rivera; his three children, Johana Vargas-Perez and her husband Jose Perez-Encarnacion of Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, Alexandra Vargas-Mendez of Southbridge and Johnny Vargas-Mendez of Southbridge; his two sisters, Elizabeth Vargas of Worcester and Tatiana Vargas of Worcester; his two brothers, Moises Vargas of Charlton and Roberto Vargas of Worcester; and his six grandchildren, Manuel J. Perez-Vargas, Keishla I. Perez-Vargas, Michael J. Perez-Vargas, Kailyn A. Rogers, DeJuan A. Rogers and Amariyah A. Graham.  He was predeceased by his two brothers, David Vargas and Felix Canales.  He was born in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico the son of the late Elpidio Vargas-DeJesus and Clara Rivera-Matos.

Johnny was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam War Era.  He went on to serve many more years in the Army and retired after an 18 year career.  He was also a very skilled carpenter.

Johnny had a very upbeat personality, always in a good mood and up for a party.  He loved traditions, celebrations and music.  He had a very giving and loving heart and was generous with everything he had.  Most of all he was a dedicated loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Calling hours for Juan will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 20 ^th , from 5:00 to 8:00pm in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  His funeral services and burial in El Yunque Memorial Park, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23rd.