SOMERSET - Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to Antone David Vargas, age 83, who passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband to M. Christine (Ferreira) Vargas for 53 years. David was born in Fall River, residing in Somerset all his life. He was son to the late Antone and Martha (Lockett) Vargas.

He was loved and cherished by many people including his children Mathew Vargas of Somerset, Amy Gomez (spouse Steven) of Washington, Katherine Shields (spouse Gene) of Maine and Sarah August (spouse David) of Maine; 6 grandchildren: Sofia, Alex, Kayleigh, Elaina, Hayden and Antonio; siblings Jacquline Sherman (spouse William deceased), Jean Butler (spouse Louis deceased), Elizabeth Motta (spouse Bruno) and the late Joan Waring (spouse Donald deceased); as well as several dear nieces and nephews. He was a strong mentor to his extended family including Judith Duffy, Lorry Kost (deceased), Cathy Paulson, Jacqueline Steinert and Arthur Ferreira Jr.  He was predeceased by his mother-in-law, Lorraine (Furtado) Ferreira and father-in-law, Arthur Ferreira, who he shared a deep and special bond with.  Arthur was not only family but also a lifelong source of guidance and wisdom.  David often credited him as one of the most important influences in his life.

David was a proud veteran who served honorably in the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command during the early 60's maintaining the B-52's and B-58's that patrolled the skies.  A passionate Harley-Davidson enthusiast and member of the Ocean State Harley Davidson Owners Group Chapter, he embraced the open road and the camaraderie that came with it. Chris and David rode tens-of-thousands of miles together. He enjoyed reading in the shade and loved American history.  For over four decades, he owned and operated, alongside his best friend and late business partner, Edmund Fortier, Eastern Transmission, a business built on integrity and trust, earning him a respected place in the Fall River community. A devoted fan of all Boston sports teams, David also loved the outdoors—boating in Mount Hope Bay and RV camping with his family across North America. He was particularly captivated by watching the Big Bear Bald Eagle live stream and spent his final years traveling and exploring the country he loved.  But his biggest pride was watching his children, and their children become the people they are today.

David's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Alicia and the entire staff at the Southcoast Oncology Department for the warm and kind care they provided throughout his journey.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate a Catholic mass at St. John of God in Somerset at 10 A.M. on Thursday, August 7th. Arrangements are under the direction of the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, Fall River. To send the family Expressions of Sympathy, please click the Guest Book below. You may also light a candle in honor of David. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to be made to the Friends of Big Bear Valley at https://www.friendsofbigbearvalley.org/

An after mass luncheon will be held at the Venus de Milo restaurant in Swansea from 11:00AM to 3:00PM