George Michael Vargo

George Michael Vargo, 93, of Corning, NY passed away at home on April 15, 2023.
He was born on September 9, 1929 in Sharon, PA, to Joseph Vargo and Julia (Porkolab) Vargo, both Hungarian immigrants. Following graduation from Sharon High School, where he led the golf team as captain, George joined the U.S. Navy, attaining the rank of Aviation Machinist's Mate Petty Officer 3rd Class. George earned his degree in education from Edinboro College where he met his first wife, Carolyne Fleming. He earned his Master's degree at Elmira College. After teaching in Ohio and Pennsylvania, George and Carolyne settled in Corning, where he spent the majority of his career, including 29 years as an art teacher at Corning Free Academy. He retired in 1984.
A lover of life, George enjoyed the outdoors as a hunter, a fisherman and a golfer. A true entertainer at heart, George carried his guitar with him wherever he went and could often be found playing country music in downtown Corning and Pennsylvania. A wonderful cook, George was never shy about offering friends and guests an opportunity to sample his Hungarian cuisine or famous fried chicken. No one ever left the Vargo house hungry.
George was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyne, his parents, his six brothers, Louis, Joseph, Carl, William, Alexander and James Vargo; and his three sisters, Betty Azalos, Julia Silye, and Mary Tobias.
A beloved father, grandfather, and companion to his dear, dear friend, Joan Butala, George is survived by his children, Julia Vargo of Hammondsport, NY, Richard Vargo of Corning, NY; and Shawn and Sue (McCarthy) Vargo of Painted Post, NY. He is also survived by the four grandchildren he was happy to spoil and brag about whenever he could, Graham and Amanda O'Donnell and Erin and Ryan Vargo, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Burial TBD at Oakwood Cemetery in Sharon, Pennsylvania.
George's family has entrusted his care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. To leave a loving memory, visit www.haugheyfuneralhome.com.