Dean Francis Wargo, age 71

Dean Francis Wargo was born into this world on August 30, 1950. He passed from this life on June 7, 2022, at the age of 71.

He lived the past 27 years in the Jacksonville area. How Dean came to this area is a mystery, but his story began when he joined the Army in 1966. Over his career, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, Commendation Medal awarded by the Republic of Vietnam, Good Conduct (2nd Award), Purple Heart (2nd Award), US Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Silver Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Ranger (qualified), Airborne (qualified), Jungle Expert (qualified Panama Canal Zone), Combat Service Stripe (3), Service Stripe (4), Honorable Discharge.  Dean was a Hero.  But he carried many burdens as most true heroes do. During this part of his life, he kept quietly to himself. Dean worked in construction and was a salesman. He enjoyed shooting fireworks and the thrill of the crowd.  He was an adopted grandfather to our children.  He loved them and spoiled them in that fashion. He saw a lot of movies and ate a lot of Chinese food with them. Dean made memories they will cherish. He was in the background for all the important life events but didn’t stay too long. He said he did not do weddings or funerals. Dean was headstrong and determined. He was kind and generous.  Wargo told corny jokes and did silly magic tricks. I know wherever he is, he is “Fine as frog hair.”  He had a pet raccoon named Scout that ate peanut butter sandwiches and had the respect of several family dogs. Dean was a defender and a friend.  He was loved. We just let Dean be Dean.  He is survived by many friends that were his chosen family.

Dean has been laid to rest at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in section H, lot 171.

Arrangements are under the trusted direction of A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas, 72076. 501-982-3400.