John C. Vargason, 67, passed away on February 20, 2026, in Pleasant, Prairie, WI.

John was born Feb 3,1959 in Minneapolis, MN and later was raised in Duluth, MN. He was a graduate of Duluth East Senior High School.

He is survived by his mother Sue Dumas, brothers Jordan and James, and his endeared partner Susan Manta. He is also survived by his half-sisters-Eve, Tara and Hallie, aunt-Frankie and her children Renee and Nick Jr., nieces-Breanna, Sara, Carolyn, Michelle, Jessica, nephew-Jordan Jr., numerous grandnephews and grandnieces, and friend–Candice.

He is preceded in death by his father Gary Vargason, grandparents-Frank and Doris Bruns, uncles-Steven, David, Terry, John Novak Jr. and stepfather William.

John never had children but considered his extended family, April and her children his immediate family living in Kentucky.

John served in the merchant marines prior joining the United States Air Force in 1982 and retiring in 2003. He was awarded several medals, ribbons, and citations for his outstanding service.  He and his family were proud of his service to the nation which was admirable. His stories will be missed.

John loved time outdoors. He camped, swam, boated, fished, rockhounding, trapped and assisted with tracking. He cultivated black walnut trees as well as many other species on his Kentucky tree farm. Gardening was one of his passions and he taught many friends gardening tips. John was a talented crafter in woodworking, stained glass, clay, leathers and tinkering.  John was also an excellent cook and truly enjoyed his time cooking, baking and sharing knowledge.

We are thankful for Crossway Community Church. The comfort and direction they provided was immense.

A burial will be conducted at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove, WI on March 19, 2026 at 11am.  There will be no other services.