Joseph J. Vargo

Joseph J. Vargo , of Palmerton, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2021, surrounded by his family at the age of 87.

Born and raised in Palmerton, Joseph would often tell a tale of picking huckleberries on the mountain with his close friends as a boy, selling them to the ladies on Delaware Avenue for pies, grabbing a milkshake with his friends, and watching a film at the Palm Theater.  Joseph graduated in 1951 from Palmerton High School, often boasting that he was a member of the only undefeated Palmerton football team.  He served his country with honor in the Korean War, trained in all manner of weapons in the Army, and after achieving expert marksman level, he was confusingly made a medic.

He worked at the NJ Zinc Company when returning home, and retired after 35+ years of service. He cared about his family, friends, and community.  He was a strong, kind, loving, selfless, and supportive husband, father, and grandfather.  He was passionate about his art, carpentry, fishing, guitar playing, and bowling at the Hungarian Club where he bowled his first 300 game.

Survivors: Joseph is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jed and Loriann Vargo of Pottsville, PA, and two grandchildren, Jessica and Jaiden.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Joan, his son Jeff, and his brothers and sisters.

Services: A public viewing will be held at Campton Funeral Home, 525 Delaware Avenue, Palmerton, PA 18071, on Thursday, March 18, 2021 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 243 Lafayette Avenue, Palmerton, at 2:00 p.m., interment will follow at Towamensing Cemetery, 3rd Street and Fireline Road, Palmerton.