Terry Vargo

Dr. Terrence Vargo passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2019, leaving behind his spouse, Charlene; daughter Caitlin, from his first marriage to Becky Watford; mother, Loretta; brothers, Tim and Dan; sisters, Jacquie, Mimi and Carolyn. He will be sorely missed by the many people he touched with his generosity, love for life and good nature as an employer, colleague, husband, father, brother, son and devoted friend. He is with his father Donald Vargo, who died August 5, 2014.

He earned a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry in 1989 from the University at Buffalo SUNY and worked as a research associate in the Industry-University Cooperative on Biomaterials there until 1992. Terry was a founding member and president of Integument Technologies, Inc. of Buffalo, New York. He is the author of over thirty scientific publications and is a co-author on nine fluoropolymer modification patents.

Terry grew up in Northeast Ohio, near Cleveland, which he proudly represented throughout his life as a fan of the Indians, Browns and Cavaliers. He attended Saint Francis De Sales grade school in Parma, where he served as an altar boy. He graduated with honors from Padua Franciscan high school. A life-long athlete, Terry was a golfer, a pool player, a wrestler, cross country runner and was called “Tito” for his skill as a baseball player. An avid sportsman and member of the Fin, Feather and Fur club of Lewiston, New York, he hunted wild boar and deer with a compound bow and fished the oceans and Great Lakes. He was also an accomplished guitar player, loved 60s and 70s classic rock and was a gourmet cook. He met his love, Charlene McDonald, in 1989. They traveled the world together and made their home in Lewiston, New York.

Terry was popular and active in the establishments and clubs throughout Lewiston. His larger-than-life presence will be missed by all. Godspeed, Terry. We will see you on the other side. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contribution be made to The Heifer Foundation, www.heiferfoundation.org .

Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis DeSales Church, Monday, February 11, 2019 at 10 a.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends received at THE RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME, 5762 PEARL RD. (AT SNOW RD.) SUNDAY 2-6 P.M.