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1984 - 2007

BORN

1984

DIED

2007

About

Ventura College

Joel Vargas Obituary

Joel Vargas, 22, of Santa Paula passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2006, at Santa Paula Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Joel was born in Santa Paula on Sept. 10, 1984. The family lived in Santa Paula. Joel attended school in Fillmore and graduated from Fillmore High in 2002, then was a student at Ventura College.

Joel loved spending time with his family, his nieces and nephews, his girlfriend and his many friends, all of whom were very special to him.

Joel was preceded in death by his grandmother Catalina Vargas and an aunt, Victoria Villa.

Joel is survived by his parents, David and Rita Vargas; sister, Inez (husband Willam) Covarrubias; brother, David (wife Amanda) Vargas, Jr.; nieces and nephews, Isaiah and Kianna Covarrubias, Alexis, Anjalee and David Vargas, and Javier and Inez Gonzalez; and his girlfriend, Mirna Paderes.

Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007, at Funeraria del Angel Stetler Mortuary, 128 S. Eighth St., Santa Paula, with recitation of the rosary to follow at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 427 N. Oak St., Santa Paula. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 5, 2007, also at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Burial will follow at Pierce Bros. Santa Paula Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Funeraria del Angel Stetler Mortuary, 128 S. Eighth St., Santa Paula, CA 93060; phone 805-525-5595.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Ventura County Star on Jan. 3, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Joel Vargas

39 Entries

Stephanie Taylor

February 2, 2007

To the family,
My deepest sympathies. I can't even imagine how to say any encouraging words for such a tragedy or any actions I could do to help you out, just know that you all have been, and will continue to be, in my heart and prayers.
To Joel,
I never met you but from what I've heard you were an extraordinary man with a big heart. I'm sorry I never got to meet you but I want to say thank you for being who you were, such a great brother, honest man, devoted boyfriend, loving son, and decent human being. Those kinds of people are rare.I'm happy for you that you are no longer suffering, congratulations on beginning your new life in a place where you will get the peace that you have for so long deserved.

WILLIAM COVARRUBIAS

February 1, 2007

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS JOINED US THIS MORNING IN OUR SADDIEST MOMENT. I WOULD LIKE TO START EXPLAINING NOT HOW MY BROTHER IN LAW DIED BUT HOW HE LIVED, HE LIVED LIFE TO THE FULLEST. HE TOUCHED EACH AND EVERY ONE OF OUR HEARTS IN HIS OWN SPECIAL WAY. HE WAS A JOYFUL PERSON WHO ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HIS FACE. NO MATTER IF TIMES WERE GOOD OR BAD HE WAS A YOUNG MAN WHO WAS LOVED BY MANY. HE WAS A GREAT SON, GRANDSON, NEPHEW, COUSIN, BROTHER, BROTHER IN LAW, UNCLE, FRIEND, AND BOYFRIEND. ALTHOUGH GOD HAS CHOSEN HIM FOR A DIFFERENT PURPOSE HE WOULD HAVE ACCEPTED IT VALIENTLY WITH A SMILE ON HIS FACE AS HE DID. HIS LOVE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN IT WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.

Lennis Garcia

January 31, 2007

Joel was such a great person. If this is what God intended to be- his life must be worth more than anyone imagined. From High School to kicking back at 'Senior Only' parties, I will forever hold all those great memories close to my heart. He was so proud of his family and talked about all of you constantly. He loved being an uncle! I still remember cruising in our "wannabe" Lincoln for Prom like it was just yesterday... being advised to save my salad for after the main course instead of before like we're all accustomed. He shared a little bit of what his life was like... it only made me realize how strong he truly was. Joel was a true gentleman and was always very respectful to all of his peers.

My thoughts and prayers will be with you always... God only takes the best.

Mirna Paredes

January 29, 2007

There are no words to explain how I feel about this. I cant say I'm just sad because that word does not begin to explain what my feelings are,they are so much more than that. I saw Joel go through so much that I always told him I admired his courage. The four years that we spent together felt like more than four years, just because we tried to spend as much time as possible together. I remember that sometimes on the weekends I would go with Joel ,Rita, and David to the stores.Also going to Disneyland or going out to have dinner all together, or family parties. Those are some of the times that I will never forget. I remember as well those trips that Joel and I would take from San Diego to Santa Paula and then back to San Diego. It was funny because Rita would just give us the look that we were crazy. I would like you to know Joel or as I would call u "chubby cheeks" that I love you and always will. Rita and I want you to know that I will never stop visiting you or calling you because throughout this years I was able to build a wonderful relationship with you as well as with David, Inez, David Jr, and the kids.
Love, Mirna

Julissa Ortega

January 25, 2007

David, Rita, Inez and David Jr.: I am very sorry for your loss. I know they are no words to describe what you may be going through. Now you have someone to watch over you, "Joel your Guardian Angel". I just want you all to know that we will always have you in our prayers. Take care and may god bless you all always.

Ana Enriquez

January 18, 2007

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Erika Huerta

January 17, 2007

Joel,

Although you are not amongst us in flesh you are here with us in spirit.... Your energetic-self and that smile that lit up every room; No words left to express only the silence to endure. I will remember you always as Inez's little brother who made me laugh. The kind hearted man you became. I know God had a bigger plan for you. We may not understand it now but in knowing that, may we all find comfort.

David, Rita, Inez and David Jr;

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal.....

Joel, you will be remembered!

Chris and Gaby Gonzalez

January 17, 2007

My Cousin Joel, So many thoughts and childhood memories come to mind when I think of your name. since you've been gone, Not a day has gone by where i haven't thought about those times. Times that seem so far back, i find myself in tears because i can't remember them all. We used to be together every day. Till every day turned into every other day, then every other month. It's funny though, I can see Your face when I think of all those days. There wasn't a day where I didn't hear your goofy laugh, or see your smile grow from ear to ear. Even the day you went home. Your death has effected me so much, all I can do is hope and pray that my memories of you last forever. I regret the times I could of stayed longer to talk to you, and the days I could of called you just to say Hi. Forgive me primo. I want you to know that you've given me a powerful wake up call. You made me realized that I need to appreciate every day that God gives me, and the time I get with family and friends. I believe you spent your days that way. I love You for that Primo. I'll see you in my dreams the way i always saw you, with a smile.

To my uncle David, Aunt Rita, Cousins; David, Inez, Amanda, and Will, Our Hearts go Out to you in this time of need. May God Be With YOU ALL. -CHRIS

Gonzalez Family

January 17, 2007

To my nephew,
You are living among the angels now. And I know you're in good hands. Even though you were here for such a short while you were always in my heart and always will be.
Love you,
Uncle Danny

Gonzalez Family

January 17, 2007

Dear Vargas Family,
We have no words to express our deepest sympathy. However the loss that we are all experiencing has no comparison to the love we gained from Joel. He has taught this family that love is the ultimate gift and nothing else matters. We will forever be greatful for that gift and always remember him when feeling that love.
Thank You Mijo,
Rest in peace Joel Vargas.

With much love,
Uncle Jorge, Aunt Sarah, Erica, Lisa and Nicky Gonzalez

Carina Magana

January 16, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with the Vargas family. Joel's time with us was indeed short but I am certain he touched many lives. I went to HS with Joel. I remember taking Drivers Ed with him, he sat behind me and was constantly asking for either a piece of paper or a pencil. He always had a smile on his face along with a joke or something funny to share. I saw him not too long ago at a wedding as well and was in shock when my aunt (who has lived next door to the Vargas family for years) told my sisters and I that he had passed. Joel is finally with God and in a better place watching over us.

Evelina Rodriguez

January 16, 2007

No words can express how sorry we are Joel is no longer here with us, but rejoice knowing he is in a better place. My deepest deepest sympathy to the entire family.

Inez Covarrubias

January 15, 2007

Joel, my baby brother,
It seems like only yesterday Mom & Dad brought you home from the hospital and I became your "Big Sis" You were a beautiful baby with a beautiful smile who lit up the room. I remember chasing you around always making sure you were ok and happy. Those late nights when I would stay up with you until 11:00pm or later because "Joelito" wanted to watch Super Dave or King Kong. So "Big Sis" to the rescue would stay up so you would be happy. When you got your drivers license and you would drop off dad's car at my house and take my Honda, God only knew I was terrified letting you take it, but anything to make you happy.
You have always been a special person who touched everyone lives in a special way. Especially my Isaiah's you were his idol he looked up to you so much always wanting to dress and act just like "Tio" That's why he asked you to be his "God Father". I hope he grows up and becomes a wonderful young man like you.
You and I always had a special bond that now has been broken. I know now that you are in a better place without pain. But my selfishness wants you here with me. I hope you know how very special you are to me you will always live in my heart I will always keep my Baby Brothers memory alive. I love you and miss you.

Your "Big Sis" (or as you would say Your "Favorite Sis")
-Inez

Maria Villa-Jimenez

January 11, 2007

Rita,David,Inez and David Jr.
Words can not express how we feel for your loss. His beautiful smile, wonderful personality and great sense of humor will be greatly missed. Only he knows the suffering he went through, and know he is free of all his pain and suffering. His time here was short, but he impacted so many lives with his charm, he will never be forgotten. Your baby boy is in good hands now and my Mama is there with him. Our prayers are with you all.
Love Maria,Robert & Anthony Jimenez

Stephanie Navarro

January 11, 2007

When I heard that Joel has past away, I thought it was impossible... My heart dropped. I remember Joel as always smiling, laughing, joking around and he always cared so greatly for others. He was one of my closest cousins, like my best friend, I felt like no matter what it was, I could talk to him. He will be missed greatly. I know one day i'll see him again but untill then I look up at the sky and know he's up there watching over us all.

Aunt Rita and Uncle David, I miss you a lot and I love you so very much.

OFELIA COVARRUBIAS

January 10, 2007

VARGAS FAMILY; IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MAY YOU FIND STRENGTH IN GOD TO MOVE FORWARD. JOEL IS IN HEAVEN NOW WITH GOD AND IS PAIN FREE JUST LIKE HE WANTED TO BE. YOUR FAMILY IS IN MY PRAYERS. GOD BLESS YOU ALL

Ernie Lemus

January 9, 2007

Dear Vargas family,

When Rita first told me Joel wanted me to be a pallbearer, and then asked me if I would, I instantly said yes. As I later thought about it I realized how much it meant to me, eventhough I wish Joel was here I am honored to meet one of his last wishes.
I am sorry that Joel is gone, but I am thankful for the memories I have of him, memories that will never be forgotten. I will miss the little things like his laugh and the overly agressive handshake he would give his friends, we teased him about it too, we knew it as, " Joel's mean-o handshake".
I consider Joel one of my closest friends and even though he may have been hurting he never liked to show to us, he always had a great attitude, His attitude towards life is one of the many ways in which your son has touched my life. Eventhough I have known Joel for as long as I can remember it was without a doubt too short. However I am thankful that the short time he was here has left me many memories that we will one day reminice when we meet again.

Mari Mejia (Rodriguez)

January 9, 2007

Our deepest condolences to the Vargas Family, we are truly sorry for your loss and we will keep Joel in our thoughts and prayers.

ANGELA COVARRUBIAS

January 9, 2007

THIS IS SOMETHING I WROTE FOR MOMMA RITA AND PAPPA DAVID OF ALL THE MEMORIES WE ALL SHARE OF JOEL:
I REMEMBER 11 YEARS AGO WHEN YOU CAME INTO OUR FAMILY AND LIFE,
WHEN YOUR SISTER BECAME WILLIAM'S WIFE,
YOU WERE A LITTLE BOY WITH A BOWL HAIRCUTT,
AND YOUR FAVORITE SAYING WAS "WHAT",
OVER THE YEARS WE HAVE WATCHED YOU GROW,
INTO A YOUNG MAN WE LOVED SO,
I REMEMBER YOUR GQ STANCE,
AND GOD ONLY KNOWS YOU LOVE TOO DANCE,
I REMEMBER OUR FAMILY BBQ'S AND HOLLOWEEN PARTIES AND OUR RAW EASTER EGG FIGHTS,
THOSE MEMORIES WILL LET ME SLEEP AT NIGHT,
ON WEDNESDAY YOU DECIDED TO WALK INTO THE LIGHT,
YOU NEW IN YOUR HEART THAT YOUR MOM AND DAD WOULD BE AT YOUR SIDE TO HOLD YOU TIGHT,
I THANK GOD THAT HE LET US ALL BE TOGETHER ON YOUR LAST NIGHT,
YOUR MOM LOOKERD AT ME AND SAID "MIJA IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME" "WHY DIDN'T GOD TAKE ME",
I SAID MOMMA RITA THIS IS THE WAY JOEL WANTED IT TO BE,
YOU WANTED TO START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT,
AND YOU DID WHEN GOD SENT YOU INTO THE LIGHT,
YOUR MEMORY WILL LIVE ON,
WAY AFTER YOU ARE GONE,
YOU WERE LOVED THEN, NOW TOMORROW, AND ALWAYS.

REST IN PEACE MIJO WE ALL LOVE YOU

Raquel Ortega (Arreola)

January 9, 2007

It is very hard for me to find the right words to express my deepest sympathy. I remember us playing as kids, we use to have so much fun together. Even at such a young age you could see Joel was someone very special, and I consider myself very fortunate to have known someone like that. Rita, David, David Jr. & Inez we are very sorry for this loss you have experienced, the only thing I can say is that now he is truly an Angel. I wish you the best and pray everyday that you find the strength to get through this great loss. Our prayers are with you always.

art rodriguez

January 8, 2007

david and rita sorry about your loss.on behalf of the rodriguez family we send our deepest condolences.and to my compa david jr.dont forget you still have a brother.im here for you compa.

CRUZ AVINA

January 7, 2007

RITA Y DAVID SENTIMOS MUCHO LA GRAN PERDIDA DE JOEL ESPERAMOS DIOS LES DE MUCHAS FUERSAS Y VALOR PARA SEGUIR ADELANTE.
NOSOTROS TENEMOS RECUERDOS MUY BONITOS DE EL MUY ALEGRE Y MUY TIERNO RECUERDO UNA VEZ QUE HISE TOSTADAS Y YO NO LE OFRESI PORQUE PENSE QUE NO LE GUSTAVAN, Y EL TE DIJO [RITA] QUE YO NO LE OFRESI QUE Y A EL SE LE ANTOJARON ,TE ACUERDAS RITA? DE PARTE DE ROSA,CRUZ,JR,JERRY,ANGEL AVINA VARGAS.
MUCHOS BESOS Y ABRASOS.
Y RECUERDEN QUE EL ESTA CON DIOS Y CUIDARA DE USTEDES.

MICHELLE THOMAS

January 7, 2007

TO THE VARGAS FAMILY
IM SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR WONDERFUL SON JOEL.I HAD THE HONOR OF WORKING WITH HIM AT VONS. HE WAS A TRUE FRIEND.ALWAYS WILLING TO HELP OUT EVERYONE.HE WILL BE MISSED BY EVERYONE WHO KNEW HIM.ONE OF MY FAVORITE MEMORIES OF JOEL WAS WHEN MY OLDEST DAUGHTER WENT TO HER FIRST PROM.I FOUND OUT JOEL WAS GOING TOO SO I ASKED HIM TO KEEP AN EYE ON HER FOR ME.HE SAID HE WOULD.WELL,WHEN MY DAUGHTER GOT HOME THAT NIGHT SHE SAID SHE HAD FUN BUT "IT WAS WIERD EVERY WHERE I WENT I SAW JOEL VARGAS"I GOT A GOOD LAUGH AT THAT.ABOUT A WEEK LATER SHE DEVELOPED HER FILM FROM THAT NIGHT AND SHE HAD PICTURES OF HER AND SOME FRIENDS AND GUESS WHO WAS IN THE BACKGROUND?HE REALLY DID KEEP AN EYE ON HER FOR ME.THAT WAS THE KIND OF GUY HE WAS.YOU DID A GREAT JOB RAISING HIM!HE WILL ALWAYS HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART.AND WILL NEVER BE FORGOTEN.

John & Del Rivas

January 5, 2007

David,Rita,Inez,David jr.we are so very sorry for your loss.It's been quite some time since we last said hi and hugged each other especially joel and it's hard to believe that he is gone. Our prayers are forever with you all love you always

Susana Ortega

January 5, 2007

David, Rita, Inez and David Jr. It's so hard to believe that little Joel has passed. I'm so sorry for your loss, Joel was such a sweet person. I still can't believe that little boy grew into such a wonderful young man. One of the last times I saw him he walked me to the car to help with my groceries and he wasn't even working anymore. He always made sure to tell me to say Hi to my parents, his ninos. He was always so thoughtful and thinking of others. Our great loss is heaven's gain...your angel is now safe.

TINA SMALLEY

January 4, 2007

TO JOELS FAMILY, I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. JOEL WAS ONE OF THE NICEST AND HONEST PEOPLE I HAVE EVER WORKED WITH. HIS MOTHER RAISED A FINE YOUNG MAN. HE LOVED HIS FAMILY AND HIS GIRLFRIEND SO MUCH. WHEN HE WORKED WITH ME AT VONS HE WOULD WALK ME TO MY CAR AT MIDNIGHT AND MAKE SURE I GOT IN OK. HEAVEN WILL BE PROUD TO WELCOME HIM IN. GOD BLESS YOU AND PLESAE KNOW THAT JOEL TOUCHED SO MANY PEOPLE IN A BEAUTIFUL WAY. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIM . LOVE TINA DUNHAM(S.P. VONS)

Ricardo Sandoval Jr., Jennifer Jump

January 4, 2007

Dear Vargas family, we are Extremely sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to all of you. Joel was an amazing and inspirational young man whose smile, comfort and presence will certaintly be missed as much as it will be remembered. Even though his time here with us was short, his memories will remain with us forever. God Bless.

FAMILIA GALINDO

January 4, 2007

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY. HE WAS A GOOD GUY AND A GOOD FRIEND.

FAMILIA GARIBAY

January 4, 2007

OUR HEARTS AND SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY,MAY GOD BLESS YOU!!!

Anna Villa-Perez

January 4, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

Rita, David, Inez,and David Jr. I am so sorry for your loss. I still cannot believe Joel has passed away. It was so hard to visit all of you and not see his smily face. Joel was always so happy and loved to have fun. I remember when all of you would spend the night, and all we could hear was giggling and laughing (and then Rita yelling of course).He was such a great person and will be truly missed. I know there are not enough words to say that can make the pain go away. Healing takes time and in time it will get easier. Just remember that your little boy and your brother is always with you and when you need to tell him something just talk to him, and he will listen. God Bless all of you. Love Anna, Jesse, and Joseph Perez.

Sheena Baca

January 4, 2007

I am so sorry for your family's loss. I was the nures at
Dr. Iwasik's office and got to know Joel and his mother pretty well! My sympothy goes out to the family.

Irene Gomez

January 4, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss & I send my deepest sympathys.I went to school with Joel and I just can not believe that he is gone.He always had a smile on his face and I think that is what I will remember most about him.My prayers are with you.

ElENA V. Arenas

January 4, 2007

David & Rita ,David, Inez
I Cant say enough of how sorry i am to hear of the loss of joel. I knew him when he was in the bike club with my brother. May you find comfort with the long lasting memories he leaves behind. I am truely sorry!!

Sandi Panico

January 3, 2007

Vargas Family,
I will miss that big smile of Joel's everytime I need a dance partner. Please find comfort in knowing he is at a better place and was welcomed with open arms from Tia Vicky.
May god bless your family now and always.
My deepest sympathies

Angie Hernandez

January 3, 2007

Rita and David,
Words can't express how sorry we are. Although his time here was short, he left a huge impression on us with his warm heart and beautiful smile. God bless your family always. Love, Sam, Angie, & kids.

phillip/doreen cervantez sr

January 3, 2007

our prayers are with you and family

GENEVA OBIOLS

January 3, 2007

TO THE FAMILY OF JOEL HE WAS SUCH A SWEET GUY EVERY TIME YOU WOULD SEE HIM HE WOULD MAKE YOU SMILE HE USED TO HELP ME AT VONS JUST TO GET OUT OF THE STORE I WILL MISS HIM AND IM SORRY THAT YOU HAD TO EXPEREINCE THIS LOSS BUT I WANTED YOU TO KNOW WHAT A GREAT SON YOU RAISED AND WE WILL ALL MISS HIM

Maribel Rodriguez

January 3, 2007

Inez,My deepest condolances to you and your family. May god bless you and your family during this difficult time.

Maribel Rodriguez

ANGELA COVARRUBIAS

January 3, 2007

I cant believe that God called you home. You wanted to start the new year off with a new start and now you are. I hope you know how much you are loved and missed. I want you to know that I will never forget the quality time we had (barbeques,Easter parties raw egg fights, Holloween parties). I can remember your laugh and smile and how much you loved to make fun of other people. I remember when you became a part of our family 11 years ago you were a little boy with a bowl haircutt and then you grew up to be a handsome playboy. I thank god that he gave me the chance to see you right before you died. Heaven need a new angel and now they have one. May you feel god's blessing upon you.Now you know how it feels to be without pain and discomfort and you deserve that you suffered long enough.You were the one that always kept us laughing and guessing as to what else you were gonna come up with. REMEMBER WE LOVE YOU NOW AND ALWAYS, JOE AND ANGELA COVARRUBIAS

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