Jose Hernando Vargas

December 29, 2020

Jose was born on March 27th, 1934 in Bogota, Colombia. He had three siblings; Alfonso, Eduardo, and Anna. Jose immigrated to the United States for a better life in 1956 at the age of 22. He served in the U. S. Army in Germany during the cold war. Upon returning he settled in Philadelphia, PA. His bride, Luz, joined him in the United States. They were married on January 12th, 1963 and had three children; Marvin, Allan and Narda. While working and raising a family, Jose attended Temple University for Mechanical Engineering. He was a Tool and Dye Maker/Machinist by trade and a life long IAM member. He worked for Nice Ball Bearing and Thiokol, where he was proudly chosen to be one of six tool and dye makers to work o the NASA Apollo Program, crafting various parts for their rockets. Jose finally retired in 1999 from the Philadelphia Inquirer after 20 years. Jose was very mechanically and mathematically inclined. He completed many home projects and tasks. He was always happily involved in projects at his children's homes and his beloved Greentown mountain house. He enjoyed fishing and reading in the tranquility of the mountains. Jose adored his grandchildren and enjoyed every minute he got to spend with them. He never hesitated in giving a helping hand or carry out a task. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Jose will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all that were touched by his kindness. Jose is survived by: loving wife Luz; loving children: Marvin Vargas, Allan Vargas (Jody), and Narda Trojan (Bill); grandchildren: Charley Vargas, Alyssa Vargas, Rocco and Marcos Trojan. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jose's memory may be made to: The Alzheimer's Association 399 Market St. Ste. #250 Philadelphia, PA. 19106 Services are private for family only. Please check back for a Memorial Mass to be held in the future for family and friends to attend.