Antonio José Vargas, born December 9, 1982, passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2026 surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Antonio grew up in Westerville, Ohio, where he developed a lifelong passion for music, creativity, and human connection. A gifted musician, singer, songwriter, and producer, he found joy in creating music and sharing it with others. Music was more than something he loved, it was part of who he was.
Antonio was known for his adventurous spirit and often greeted life with a simple question: “Are you adventurous?” It was a phrase that reflected the way he approached the world—with curiosity, courage, and an openness to new experiences. He was articulate, charismatic, compassionate, empathetic, loyal, inventive, resourceful, and endlessly creative. He possessed a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making others feel seen, valued, and welcomed.
Connection was at the heart of Antonio’s life. He loved deeply and cultivated friendships that became family. Whether through music, conversation, laughter, or simply being present, he brought people together. He cherished his many close friends and the community they built together.
Antonio is survived by his mother and stepfather: Rebecca and Michael Padula; father and stepmother: Tony and Teresa Vargas; beloved sister, with whom he shared a special bond, and brother-in-law: Vanessa and Brad Bowers and their son, Julian Cruz; brother: Xzavier Newson; grandmother: Flor Vargas; grandfather: George Mancuso; stepsiblings: Natalie, Laura, Jared, Justin, and Conner; aunts and uncles and their families: Jimmy and Paula Vargas and their children – Lisa, Chrissy, Jesse, and Rachel, Miriam and Lyndon Cron and their sons – Zach and Lucas, Bonnie and Sid Stern and their daughter – Adrienne, and Tamara and Ed DenHaan; and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Among those friendships, his long-time bonds with Ian Link and Ryan Dombrowski held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, José Antonio Vargas; his grandmother, Concetta Mancuso; his grandfather, George Ryan; and his cousin, Drew Cooperider.
Though his time with us was far too short, Antonio leaves behind a legacy of music, friendship, creativity, compassion, and love. His adventurous spirit, generous heart, and gift for bringing people together will continue to inspire those who knew him. The songs he created, the friendships he nurtured, and the memories he shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
Friends and family are invited to gather on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 4-6 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, 209 East Main Street, Shelby, Ohio for a celebration of Antonio’s life. The gathering will conclude with a service and time of sharing at 6 pm. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed on Shelby: Trinity United Methodist Church’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Trinityumcshelby
Care for Antonio and his family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, Shelby. Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation (mhopus.org/donate/), supporting music education and access to instruments for young musicians, a cause that reflected Antonio’s lifelong love of music and creativity.
So sorry for the family loss. Our love and compassion is with you.
Memories of your wedding, baby shower, visiting when he was a baby, time in Michigan on Sugar Island and so much more. RIP. Love to you, Rebecca and family.
I’m so sry to here this, he was a great guy in my book…
So very sorry to hear about Tony. He grew up with my boys and will be missed. A great kid gone to soon. R. I. P. Tony 🙏🏻😇
Our sincere condolences and prayers go out to your entire family during this time of grief.
Rebecca, so very sorry for your & your family’s loss! This is a beautifully written tribute for your son; sounds like he had such a loving soul! Sending supportive thoughts and prayers your way! I am so very sorry for not reaching out after you had left work that day! Prayers for you all! 🙏
Tony was filled with light. It exuded from him. He built up the people around him and shared his light generously. He was talented and so free in many ways that others are too scared to be. He was vulnerable and real. It has been many years since I last saw Tony, but our time together as friends was a fundamental part of my life and who I am today. His curiosity encouraged my curiosity, his adventurousness led me into many (sometimes strange) adventures, and his creativity was the soundtrack of a very special time in my life. My heart goes out to his family and closest friends. This is a true loss. God bless him and those who are mourning.
My sincere condolences to the Vargas family. Tony, my friend, I am praying for you.
Toni lo siento mucho amigo de esto descanza en paz🥹🥺🙏
Dude, I slept in your basement. I drove you home from school several times. My mother grounded me cause your birthday party. I want you to know that you were a great friend. I love you! You rode 12 hours with me when I moved to Memphis in my old Ford. You showed up to my last show in Ohio before I moved. You were in contact when my parents passed. I love you man! We’ll meet again!
Little Tony as we knew him was always a happy go lucky, bright, pleasant and mature young boy when we lived in Ohio and watched him grow up. We didn’t see him much after we moved and he went on to mature into a wonderful young man. We were fortunate enough to spend time with Tony last Thanksgiving and he was so kind with words of condolence and admiration for my Father who passed away 21 months earlier. My mother and I were comforted by his sweet and prayerful words. Tony also gave heartfelt and uplifting words regarding our son Jake who had passed 25 months earlier. We consider it a blessing to had spent some meaningful moments with Tony only 7 months ago. God bless the Vargas and Ryan families and extended families and may Tony’s soul rest in peace.