WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Rafael “Rafita” Vargas, age 79, of Waterbury, shares the news of his peaceful passing on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Complete Care at Meriden, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Irma (Rodriguez) Vargas, a loving father, and a proud grandfather whose greatest joy in life was his family.

Rafael was born on August 22, 1946, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, the son of the late Faustino and Ramona (Cordero) Vargas. Raised in the traditions of his culture, Rafael carried the music, and hometown spirit of Puerto Rico with him throughout his life. In the 1960s, Rafael moved to Florida for a short time before settling in Waterbury, Connecticut, a city that would become his home and the place where he would leave a lasting mark. In 1970, during a joyful Puerto Rican parranda, Rafael met the love of his life, Irma Rodriguez. Surrounded by music and celebration, their story began. They were married on November 18, 1972, beginning a life together filled with love, family, and tradition.

Rafael first worked in a factory after arriving in Waterbury, but his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to open the River Street Social Club, which quickly became a gathering place for friends and neighbors. He later continued serving the community for many years through Vargas Corner Bodega and the Utuado Mini Market both of which were more than stores; they were gathering place filled with laughter, love, and lasting memories created with family and friends. Rafael's commitment to his community was exemplified by his dedication to sponsoring various community events and sports leagues, including the Buick Club, and various softball and cricket teams. He took immense joy in giving back, and his generosity touched many lives. In his downtime, Rafael had a gift for bringing people together, whether through lively parrandas, a friendly game of dominoes, or the sound of salsa music filling a room, he created moments that people will remember forever. Family gatherings were especially meaningful to him and his coquito and pernil were always a hit at every event. Not to be forgotten, is how Rafael enjoyed sharing “agua caliente” with his close family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beautiful daughter, Nitza Latorre, and his siblings; Jose Manuel “Memen” Vargas and Faustino “Tino” Vargas. Though Rafael has departed this world, his memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.

Rafael leaves behind his loving wife, Irma Rodriguez Vargas; his children; Marilynn Gibson and her husband Darrel of Southington, Rafael Vargas Jr. and his wife Lynn Davino of Southington, and his son-in-law Jose Latorre of Trumbull. He was also a proud and devoted grandfather to Isabella, Natalia, Aiyanna, Finn, Ty, Alani, Jake, and Zoey, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his siblings; Sara Vargas, and Blanca Vargas, and his compadres Adalberto “Tutin” Acosta, and Miguel Rodriguez, along with many extended family members, friends, and members of the Waterbury community who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Funeral services for Mr. Vargas will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Casey Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main Street, Waterbury. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with his family on Thursday from 10:00 am until the service commences at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at New Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterbury. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Rafael to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.