Joe Robert Vargas IV, 55, passed away from cancer on July 25, 2022, at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California. Although he received a daunting diagnosis, Joe maintained a positive attitude through his final days. He was courageous in his fight against his medical issues. Joe could be seen joking and flashing his brilliant smile during his stay at the hospital. Joe was lovingly known as PD to his parents, my love to his wife, and as daddy to his daughter.

As many may know, Joe lived a vibrant life with many ups and downs. He was born on January 13, 1967, in Newport News, Virginia. Joe spent his childhood in Texas, learning the trades of what it takes to be a kind soul. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and served his country from 1988 - 1992. During his stay in Okinawa, Japan, he met his first wife and the mother of his daughter. Joe loved to travel and was a proponent of the family unit. As years passed, his first marriage dissolved. He continued to live with his daughter and dog Chuey in San Juan Capistrano.

Joe was an inspiration to those who were able to meet him. He constantly sought self-improvement and mindfulness. Through his spiritual journey, he transformed himself into an enlightened man. Joe practiced gratitude daily, a notion that all should follow.

In his later years, Joe became a proud Berkeley dad. He loved the school and supported his daughter throughout her college journey. Some may say, Joe had more school spirit than his daughter. He could be regularly seen wearing his Cal gear all around Socal.

Joe was a man of many interests. He loved the outdoors and hiking. The family regularly went on road trips throughout California. He also loved fishing and long bike rides. As an ocean lover, Joe would enjoy admiring the sea and listening to the sounds of the waves. He was always known as an adrenaline seeker. He loved fast cars, heights, rollercoasters, and even skydiving. Joe loved NHRA races, particularly the Nitro Funny Cars. He even had the opportunity to work on a Nitro Funny Car team for a short period of time. Joe's greatest joy was being able to share his interests with his family.

On September 30, 2018, Joe met his current love, Katya. Katya and Joe married on June 26, 2020, in Laguna Hills, CA. They created a blended family. Joe loved Katya and Nikita deeply. He would look forward to making models with his son. He spent his final years at his happiest.

Joe always treated people with kindness and respect. He had a big heart and would always lend a helping hand to those in need. He was always a jokester, waiting for the perfect opportunity to provide a quick retort or a goofy face. He is survived by his wife Katya, son Nikita, daughter Corina, father Joe Sr., mother Connie Estrada, brother Eric, and dog Chuey.

As a family, we would like to express our gratefulness and appreciation to the medical staff at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, CA. Throughout Joe's battle with cancer, the nurses and doctors provided him with excellent support. They responded in a timely manner and constantly interacted positively with Joe. They were diligent in ensuring that he was comfortable in his last hours.

Services will be held Sunday, August 14, 2022, at 11:00 am at McCormick & Son Mortuaries, 25002 Moulton Parkway Laguna Hills, CA 92637. The burial service will take place on Wednesday, August 17 at 12:00 pm at Miramar National Cemetery 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122.