This is so sad... I knew Rick because he always brought his employees to our office when they needed medical care! He was so sweet, and funny!
My husband came home last night and told me that he heard about it from a coworker who lives in Discovery Bay. I just wish people knew there is always hope!
In response to "jhd120", Mr. Vargas was a young, local businessman. Owner of Lift Kit Warehouse in Antioch. He was very funny, always smiling and a genuinely nice man. People that knew him liked him. Unfortunately the economy and other issues took his life from him...
Do any of you have Memorial/Services information? My husband is a childhood friend of Rick's. We are so saddened by this and hold everyone in our prayers. We would like to pay our respects. Thank you.
I just saw your request Rick Vargas's Funeral will be Tuesday August 18th at 11am Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane, Brentwood CA Hope you can make it.
This is such a sad ending for such a great man. Unfortunately, the economy wasn't the only cause for Rick taking his life. The "other issues" mentioned before are what led to his early departure. I am a friend of Ricks. He was an honest man. Sadly, his "ex" or "baby's mama" made him choose between them and his family. Of course he choose his baby. When the economy turned around and the money ran out and after about a year of marriage, baby momma split with the guy she was seeing. I'm sure he felt hopeless, left with nothing, he had turned his back on his family (cause his wife didn't like them), and then couldn't even see his kid that some other guy was living with. A person can only handle so much at one time. He let a few bad choices map out the rest of his life. Why he couldn't see that his son would one day be able to choose for himself...We'll never know. He was such a loving and generous person. I know he loved his parents. Im sure it was very difficult to face them after the wife left him.
How dare you use a public forum to air dirty laundry! Unless you were living with Rick and his "baby mama" ....(who happened to be his wife longer than one year and they had been friends and dated for many YEARS) you have no idea what really happened.
Rick's estranged family had nothing to do with his ex wife...he had family issues way before her time. Since, we are airing dirty laundry...you forgot to mention he was a very sick man who struggled (long before he met his "ex") with alcoholism. She didn't leave because he of financial reasons.....please you have no idea, you didn't live with them.
Out of respect for his son which I know he loved more than anything, I would like to request you refrain from posting such horrible things that some day he could "google" and read. If you are a "friend" as you say you are... you would have never posted such hurtful things. You can only hurt his son now with this rubbish...please stop.
PS...Rick saw his son on a regular basis...you have no idea what you are talking about.
I am an aunt of Rick Vargas and I find the comments from "happytotell" completely disrespectful to Rick and his son, Justin. If you were really a friend of Rick's, you never would have written something so distasteful. Our family is completely devastated over Rick's death and we find your comments very offensive.
I don't care why or what "issues" led to Rick's death; it's none of my business. All I know is that we lost one of the most kind and generous men I have ever met. And he deserves better than this.
People should focus on honoring his memory instead of disgracing his name and his family. I think they have all been through enough.
I also am an aunt of Rick Vargas. I find the comments of "happyto tell" very offensive to the memory of Rick and to his child. I don't know if the hurtful comments you make about Ricks wife are true or not, nor do I care. This is about Rick!!!! Lets show some respect and honor his memory. I suspect that you didn't know Rick very well because if you did you would know that Rick was a wonderful and loving father and would never put something so distasteful in a public forum. Unfortunately, Rick chose to take his own life. No one is responsible for the choices someone else makes. Not his ex-wife nor his parents. If you were such a good friend where were you? Could you have prevented this senseless act? I think not. Lets give Rick the respect in death that he deserves and not pass judgement. I think no one will ever know what drove this man to make the decision to take his own life. It is unfortunate that during a time like this some feel the need to blame someone.
I am not family, and I don't know his ex wife personally. I like to think I am a good friend of Rick's. Although, people who never met him called themselves friends of his. I didnt mean to air any dirty laundry or imply he didnt love is son. I know absolutely he did. I should not have vented any negative information. I am a broken man over this and feel very angry. I know the facts....personally. For all the family members I offended, I apoligize.
Wednesday, 8/05/2009 - 5:09 p.m. PDT — rick vargas
tony marques
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Very sad to hear about Rick Vargas i just ran into to him at Safeway a week ago . I kew Rick from the start of his company in Alemeda and he was a business man but also very nice guy . Very sad i hope i can find out some info on the memorial services thanx and god bless.
Amazing how rumors and perceptions can even carry over after someone passes. I love the comments about Rick being a great funny guy. I was one of his very few close friends, a best friend, and he was always fun to be around. The life of any gathering!
Unfortunately, HAPPYTOTELL really didnt know Rick. You missed out!
Rick had the biggest heart of anyone I knew. I have seen him help people out of jams financially, just becuase it was the right thing to do and not expect anything back. He did a lot for me and my family, and I coudl count on him for anything.
His Ex wife was a great wife to him too... he even admitted it! But I have never seen a good divorce, and it was much more than the divorce, the economy, and his crazy parents than brought him to make the decision he did. Thso eof us who really knew him, knew he coudl turn around his financial situation if anyone could. The guy was creative!!
IFi anyone wants to know hsi service times, they havnt been made yet, but will in next few days. Keep looking here and I will let everyone know. My office and cell has been blowing up with people I never even knew askign about him.
WOW ,I CANT BELIEVE WHAT PEOPLE WILL WRITE,,I FIND THIS VERY SAD ,,RICK WAS A GOOD GUY THAT LOVED HIS SON AND FAMILY,PLEASE THIS MAN WAS A GOOD GUY,,,WE HAVE DONE BUSINESS FOR YEARS TOGETHER AND HE WAS ALWAYS PLEASANT,,A GOOD BUSINESS MAN,,AND WE BOTH MADE MONEY AND GREW A GREAT FRIENDSHIP THRU THOSE YEARS,,WE TALKED ABOUT THE ROUGH TIMES AS WELL,,HE KNEW HE WAS FIGHTING THOSE DEMONS,,, (and who doesnt have disagreements with their family once in a while)..THOSE ARE THINGS THAT ARE PRIVATE!!!! THIS IS A AWFUL SITUATION AS HE LEAVES PEOPLE BEHIND THAT LOVE HIM,,ESPECIALLY HIS SON,,,,,I THINK WE ALL NEED TO BE RESPECTFUL TO A QUALITY GUY AND HIS FAMILY!!! RICK WILL BE SADLY MISSED... THANK YOU
Wednesday, 8/05/2009 - 11:39 a.m. PDT — This is real
jasong511
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
This is real upsetting news to my wife and i. I have known Rick for 15 years and we were really good friends. The past few years we kind of lost touch of each other because we both had families and you know how sometimes it can be very hard to get together. We still phoned each other to see how everything was going. I owe alot to Rick for he introduced me to my wife. He was a very generous man and was always there to help someone if they needed help. I will always remember the memories on the delta in his "big boat" having a great time. We had a lot of good times together. I will miss you. Rest in peace my friend.
Rick i will miss you forever. I cant believe your gone. I was just with you Thursday and Friday and will never see you again. So very sad. Will miss the Newport Beach trips together, and all the good times. I just cant believe it. RIP Rick Vargas. Forever in my thoughts.
Is this the church in Brentwood off of Lonetree? I noticed they have another one in Antioch.
I am so glad someone finally posted his services and want to pay my respects to Rick. I have known him since I was in high school and dated him for 5 years as he will always hold a special place in my heart!
GOlden Hills Community Church, corner of Lone Tree and Shady Willow, acros from Target Shopping Center....... Tues Aug 18th, 11am. Please spread the word so we can say goodbye to an awesome friend!
Words cannot describe how sad we are to hear about Rick. He was a larger than life character and most of his personal vehicles were larger than life also. We first saw Rick when we moved to Disco Bay in 1996 when he was living with all the crazy boys on Beaver like a bunch of rock stars. There were so many great times and lots of laughs through the years. The pismo trips, 12 people in the excurison at the sand dunes (still don't know how we didn't roll that thing), Rick doing hot laps in the rented motor home with GG flying around in the back of it, late night "broker tour" that found us 4-wheeling through the local farm land with SM, fishing with Vessel Assist for his off shore boat that was floating around the bottom of the Stockton Channel, and building his first sand car. The list goes on and on. Lots of people knew Rick and he touched many lives. Even people who didn't know him have their opinions. We once talked to a guy at a boat show that was going to buy himself "one of those Party Sangers". We all know there was just one!
We also know that Rick LOVED his son. I think the best thing that we can do is to get out those pictures and make copies, write down your stories, dig out the LKW stickers and t-shirts and "stuff" you have tucked away. Lets make a time capsule for Justin so that when he is ready he will be able to see what a great guy his dad was and how he lived hard and fast and essentially "did it all".
To Rick...thanks for the memories. Sorry you had to go so soon.
I met Rick in like 95 when he was sleeping on a couch off Southpoint I think.Rick and I starting a great relationship right away ,starting I'd like to say Lift Kit in my driveway in a way .We were tricking out peoples rides in the area .I always followed Rick to his shops and was his main mechanic at Antioch for 16 hours a day to get things .Rick was always appreciative ,sometimes not always in words but in his actions,pay for parts you wanted and so one ,take you out eating and drinking . GG and I were just thinking of all the great /crazy things we did with Rick and were almost crying from laughter .Rick ,beeper boy and Lucasey were the original PUNKED guys .Sending 20 pizzas to each other ,call ambulances and claiming that another was 5150 and needed a straight jacket,ordering 10 yard dumpsters to be dropped in anothers driveway.I remember Hot wiring a tractor to put in someones driveway.Sorry for whoever that was .
When it came to Rick it was always going to be an adventure ,sometimes good ,bad and most of the time there was a lot of laughter involved. THis is what I will always remember about Rick.
I would see Rick on the road and would wave or occasionally at Alladinos BS for a while and he was always laughing and smiling.I meant to go by and visit but never happened .Now I wish I did .
Hey Rick...... thanks for a lot a great memories and you will be missed !!!
I've been watching the comments come up for the past week on this forum and I am so glad to see it come full circle. All of the great memories that so many of us have of Rick and the good times are how I think Rick would want to us all to remember him. I think the time capsule for Justin is the greatest idea yet! It's up to those of us who know and love Rick to make sure we keep his memory alive for his son. I am one of Rick's cousins and I adored him. I looked up to him wanted to be a rebel and a rock start just like him. He always carried me under his wing from childhood to adulthood. He'll always be the best man I know. So many of the memories posted are so familiar to me, the boats, the excursion, the road trips...I am so thankful for all of the memories that I have. You said it best Lenahans, Rick did live hard and fast and by all means he did it all. He always seemed to do it even better when he thought someone didin't believe in him.
During my 4 year(97-01) relationship with Rick, not only as an employee, but what I considered, we were really good friends. I say with all sincerity, I had some of the best years of my life.
Rick showed me how to live life to its fullest, not just once, but every day. He was so spontaneous. Literally, he would just come up with some crazy idea, like, let's got to Vegas, right now, and the next thing ya know, he's flying us to Vegas, those weekends usually get a little fuzzy after that, but none the less, priceless memories.
Generosity- If you were at dinner with Rick, and you attempted to pay, good luck, he'd never let it happened. I tried every trick in the book, like cornering the waiter, or paying ahead of time, talking to the manager, everything, it never worked, he always one upped me, and I never got to pay. I once hid money in his truck, after dinner, as soon as he found it, he threw it out the window while driving down Disco Bay Blvd, while laughing. If I needed something to drive, he’d just throw me the keys to whatever he had, like his Porsche, Chevy truck, Excursion, I had his Party Sanger for two seasons. Who does that? Rick Vargas. If you even so much as hinted, that you were short on money, or wanted to buy something, he forced you to take the money, or he’d buy it for you. And, if you ask him why? He always said… Because I can.
I could go on and on, and write stories all day. I will never forget my time spent with him.
Although, I hadn’t spent time with him in recent years, I will always feel a little of that brotherly love for Rick.
It is sad that his son will not grow up to see how amazingly talented and dynamic his father was. Hopefully he will read all of these posts some day, and it will put a smile on his face…
I met Rick in the early 80's. He lived across the street from the Boys Club in Alameda. We went to school together and his friends were my friends. I didn't ever meet someone who didn't like Rick. He was a happy guy and he really enjoyed working on cars. That's is when he and I got to know one another better. We had auto shop together and Rick was the man with all the right answers. We even worked on our own cars together from time to time. When I heard that he had passed my first thought was to myself was why god has taken a great man? My sympathy goes out to all of his family members and friends. He will surely be missed. *Remember his old orange truck? Funny that thang ran.
I remembered hanging out with Rick Vargas in Alameda working on his cars and boat behind his house, his white Jeep Cherokee "Penny One", I remember being roommates with Rick Vargas in Discovery Bay. I remember his first shop in Oakland by the Park Street Bridge, Race & Rock, his Grand Opening of "Lift Kit Warehouse" in Antioch.
My condolences to his family & RIP Rick you will be missed by us all.
It's been awsome reading everyones stories about Rick Vargas! He's touched so many lives in so many different ways. So many stories and nothing buyt time to tell them! We all owe it to Rick to keep these stories going and rise as a community to share with his son what a great man his father was.
He was a good man, great business man and an even GREATER father. His son will be very proud some day and I'm sure his momma along with all his friends will keep his memory alive and well.
God bless you Rick and know you were loved here on this earth.
Rick services will be held tomorrow at Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Ln in Brentwood at 11am. We are doing a Time Capsule for Justin so if you have anything that you would like Justin to have in memory of his daddy please bring to the church. There will be a tool box sitting in the front entrance for you to place it in.
To my nephew, Jerry Vargas, Jr. I am so embarrassed by your latest posting on this forum. I hope that your comments will not deter Rick's many good friends from paying their respects at the memorial service tomorrow. Rick was not estranged from all of his extended family. I refuse to engage in any more ugliness on this public forum. If you choose to respond to me, you know my phone number as well as my email address.
WHAT EVER IS SAID HERE WONT KEEP ME NOR SHOULD IT KEEP ANY BODY ELSE AWAY FROM BEING A DECENT PERSON AND SINCERLY PAYING THEIR RESPECTS TO A NICE KIND MAN,,,RICK HAD MANY FRIENDS THAT HE DID DIFFERENT THINGS WITH,,I AM SURE SOME WERE MUCH STRONGER FRIENDSHIPS THAN OTHERS,,WHOEVER PLANNED THE SERVICE FOR TOMORROW,,,,THANK YOU ,,AS IT GIVES RICKS FRIENDS OF ALL WALKS OF LIFE ,,WHATEVER CONNECTION THEY HAD WITH RICK A OPPORTUNITY TO PAY THEIR RESPECTS AND SAY GOOD BYE AND TREAT HIM LIKE A GOOD RESPECTFUL HUMAN BEING,,,LIKE HE WOULD US,,,,ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU FOR TOMORROW IN ADVANCE,,,,,,,,,,,,,CAR GUY
I have been friends with Rick for over 20yrs and know that this man had such a big heart. We all know Rick couldn't stand you!! Thank you to the guys that set tomorrows service up, since his "Family" didn't take the initiative and it's been 3 wks. Since when did anybody need your permission to do a service to FINALLY say "Good-bye" to such an awesome man, a brother you haven't spoke to in YEARS. We can finally put our great friend to rest!!!
This forum has been a bumpy ride which it was not to be .
All I know is Rick was a man that everyone loved and hated at one time or another .
He will and always will be the life of the party and today we lay him to rest .
RIP RICK You have touched my life and many others !!
I just wanted to say thank you to "Pepsi Mike", Frank Rodgers and whoever else who was involved on organizing Rick's services. It was a very emotional service. Rick deserved a proper goodbye and thanks to you guys he got one. It was nice to see and talk to Carolyn and Justin. If you ever want to get together and look at all the pictures i have with Rick please let me know. He was definately the life of a party. You two take care and i love you both. As for Rick's brother, please stay off this forum. Let your brother rest in peace. We dont care of issues you may have with other individuals. Rick was a great man. Please respect that.
I felt compelled to write and extend condolences to the entire Vargus Family, all the friends, and anyone else associated within the parameters of this true-nightmare.
I grew-up with Rickie in Alameda. Knew him from the 1980-s thru to present day. I am very saddened to have lost contact with Rickie from about 1995'ish to present day. I use to pop-in on him to say "hi" from time-to-time at one of his Lift Kit Warehouse offices. Rick and I shared a beer a couple times during a conversation at a few different concerts over the years, where we had bumped into one-another, etc.etc.
I would like to THANK all the people who organized and put-on the great Funeral Service for Rick. Watching the video of pictures brought tears of joy, and brought back some great memories when we all had landcruisers in Alameda. Just awesome~!
I am very saddened to have lost contact with a great guy. It is a testament to "life" as we all grow and go into so many different angle's of that game called "life". I am sorry Rick felt he had no recourse or that he (Rickie) had no where to go. The Funeral was proof there were plenty of people around...... but again, "life" plays funny tricks on us all. There are always pressures' and demands that are unforeseen that WE all face from one time to another. I am soo sorry this was an ending to such a great young (39) man's life. WE must pick-up, move-on, smile and have fun... ... .... that is what Rickieee would want~!!
Be safe, God bless, and Condolences to ALL~!
James "Jim" Petersen III Class of 1989 - Alameda High School
What a shame.. I did not know Rick too closely, nor do I have any fun stories to share. I did know him through business dealings as we ran a truck accessory store in Antioch as well, even though we didn't specialize in Lifted trucks. Rick was always polite to me, my guys as well as respectful of our operation. We also suffered from the bad economy, but can only imagine what losing his store did to him. I don't think people realize how deep that pride of ownership goes. Rick's worries are over. No more dealing with fussy customers for him ! I am very sad for his friends and family, who really feel the hurt. In cases like this it is amazing how many people show up to pay their respects, we should remember our friends in need before it gets to this point. As friends and family, I hope you comfort each other and be there for each other as it seems like Rick would have done himself.
I met Rick Vargas 5 years ago at a Good Guys show in Pleasanton, Ca. We had a very common ground. We both grew up in the Auto Industry. Lift Kit Warehouse was Rockin and Rollin when I met him. We helped each other to get into New Car Dealer accounts. His Lifts and Lowers my Interiors and Sunroofs. Rick was hustler and so I am but he definately on a greater level than me. I admired him for that. Also his gift of always being right on when it came to people in our industry. I know shutting down Lift Kit Warehouse was not easy, and he wasn't the only auto restyler that suffered. When the Banking system fell apart they were not financing $5000.00 Lifts. Those companies suffered hard and most of them shut down. Rick and I always kept in touch alot. That was our relationship. We talked alot on the phone. All the time. So It did not really suprise me that I was one of the last people to talk to him on the phone. Not a day goes by that I do not think of him and how he call me and say What's Goin On Girl???
Rick , I met some great people at your Memorial Service and as your brother posted that you didn't like funerals he's right. But I do know that if it made everyone feel better you would be all for it. Your friends did an awesome thing. Frank had me in tears. Todd kept me posted where the service was and you'd get a kick out of it, Because it was a beautiful church and all I could think of is what you would say Business is Good Here. Ha Ha!! Then there is Justin, the hug he gave me was priceless. He's beautiful. I met Carolyn and Marisa that day I know you wanted me to. If they every need anything I will be there. I know you would do the same for me. This is the part where I am suppose to say RIP blah blah blah!!!!!! I am sorry this is where I am selfish I wish you here. I miss you my friend. As you would always say to me What's Next?????????
Posted on Thursday, 7/30/2009 - 11:19 a.m. PDT — by life4u
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 1
I have confimed it with a number of people.
Unfortunately, it's true.
I will miss him alot!
RIP my friend.
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 2
I am his son's Aunt.
Unfortunately, it is not a rumor.
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 2
This is so sad... I knew Rick because he always brought his employees to our office when they needed medical care! He was so sweet, and funny!
My husband came home last night and told me that he heard about it from a coworker who lives in Discovery Bay. I just wish people knew there is always hope!
R.I.P. Rick, you will be missed by many!
Joined: Sep 2006
Current Posts: 660
who was mr. vargas?
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 2
In response to "jhd120", Mr. Vargas was a young, local businessman. Owner of Lift Kit Warehouse in Antioch. He was very funny, always smiling and a genuinely nice man. People that knew him liked him. Unfortunately the economy and other issues took his life from him...
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Do any of you have Memorial/Services information? My husband is a childhood friend of Rick's. We are so saddened by this and hold everyone in our prayers. We would like to pay our respects. Thank you.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 4
I just saw your request Rick Vargas's Funeral will be Tuesday August 18th at 11am Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane, Brentwood CA Hope you can make it.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
This is such a sad ending for such a great man. Unfortunately, the economy wasn't the only cause for Rick taking his life. The "other issues" mentioned before are what led to his early departure. I am a friend of Ricks. He was an honest man. Sadly, his "ex" or "baby's mama" made him choose between them and his family. Of course he choose his baby. When the economy turned around and the money ran out and after about a year of marriage, baby momma split with the guy she was seeing. I'm sure he felt hopeless, left with nothing, he had turned his back on his family (cause his wife didn't like them), and then couldn't even see his kid that some other guy was living with. A person can only handle so much at one time. He let a few bad choices map out the rest of his life. Why he couldn't see that his son would one day be able to choose for himself...We'll never know. He was such a loving and generous person. I know he loved his parents. Im sure it was very difficult to face them after the wife left him.
RIP Rick, I hope you found peace.
All your Friends will miss you dearly : (
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 2
Happytotell,
How dare you use a public forum to air dirty laundry! Unless you were living with Rick and his "baby mama" ....(who happened to be his wife longer than one year and they had been friends and dated for many YEARS) you have no idea what really happened.
Rick's estranged family had nothing to do with his ex wife...he had family issues way before her time. Since, we are airing dirty laundry...you forgot to mention he was a very sick man who struggled (long before he met his "ex") with alcoholism. She didn't leave because he of financial reasons.....please you have no idea, you didn't live with them.
Out of respect for his son which I know he loved more than anything, I would like to request you refrain from posting such horrible things that some day he could "google" and read. If you are a "friend" as you say you are... you would have never posted such hurtful things. You can only hurt his son now with this rubbish...please stop.
PS...Rick saw his son on a regular basis...you have no idea what you are talking about.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
I am an aunt of Rick Vargas and I find the comments from "happytotell" completely disrespectful to Rick and his son, Justin. If you were really a friend of Rick's, you never would have written something so distasteful. Our family is completely devastated over Rick's death and we find your comments very offensive.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I don't care why or what "issues" led to Rick's death; it's none of my business. All I know is that we lost one of the most kind and generous men I have ever met. And he deserves better than this.
People should focus on honoring his memory instead of disgracing his name and his family. I think they have all been through enough.
Rest in Peace Rick.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I also am an aunt of Rick Vargas. I find the comments of "happyto tell" very offensive to the memory of Rick and to his child. I don't know if the hurtful comments you make about Ricks wife are true or not, nor do I care. This is about Rick!!!! Lets show some respect and honor his memory. I suspect that you didn't know Rick very well because if you did you would know that Rick was a wonderful and loving father and would never put something so distasteful in a public forum. Unfortunately, Rick chose to take his own life. No one is responsible for the choices someone else makes. Not his ex-wife nor his parents. If you were such a good friend where were you? Could you have prevented this senseless act? I think not. Lets give Rick the respect in death that he deserves and not pass judgement. I think no one will ever know what drove this man to make the decision to take his own life. It is unfortunate that during a time like this some feel the need to blame someone.
RIP in peace Rick. I love you.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
I am not family, and I don't know his ex wife personally. I like to think I am a good friend of Rick's. Although, people who never met him called themselves friends of his. I didnt mean to air any dirty laundry or imply he didnt love is son. I know absolutely he did. I should not have vented any negative information. I am a broken man over this and feel very angry. I know the facts....personally. For all the family members I offended, I apoligize.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Very sad to hear about Rick Vargas i just ran into to him at Safeway a week ago . I kew Rick from the start of his company in Alemeda and he was a business man but also very nice guy . Very sad i hope i can find out some info on the memorial services thanx and god bless.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
Amazing how rumors and perceptions can even carry over after someone passes. I love the comments about Rick being a great funny guy. I was one of his very few close friends, a best friend, and he was always fun to be around. The life of any gathering!
Unfortunately, HAPPYTOTELL really didnt know Rick. You missed out!
Rick had the biggest heart of anyone I knew. I have seen him help people out of jams financially, just becuase it was the right thing to do and not expect anything back. He did a lot for me and my family, and I coudl count on him for anything.
His Ex wife was a great wife to him too... he even admitted it! But I have never seen a good divorce, and it was much more than the divorce, the economy, and his crazy parents than brought him to make the decision he did. Thso eof us who really knew him, knew he coudl turn around his financial situation if anyone could. The guy was creative!!
IFi anyone wants to know hsi service times, they havnt been made yet, but will in next few days. Keep looking here and I will let everyone know. My office and cell has been blowing up with people I never even knew askign about him.
MIss you buddy! See ya on the flipside!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 4
WOW ,I CANT BELIEVE WHAT PEOPLE WILL WRITE,,I FIND THIS VERY SAD ,,RICK WAS A GOOD GUY THAT LOVED HIS SON AND FAMILY,PLEASE THIS MAN WAS A GOOD GUY,,,WE HAVE DONE BUSINESS FOR YEARS TOGETHER AND HE WAS ALWAYS PLEASANT,,A GOOD BUSINESS MAN,,AND WE BOTH MADE MONEY AND GREW A GREAT FRIENDSHIP THRU THOSE YEARS,,WE TALKED ABOUT THE ROUGH TIMES AS WELL,,HE KNEW HE WAS FIGHTING THOSE DEMONS,,, (and who doesnt have disagreements with their family once in a while)..THOSE ARE THINGS THAT ARE PRIVATE!!!! THIS IS A AWFUL SITUATION AS HE LEAVES PEOPLE BEHIND THAT LOVE HIM,,ESPECIALLY HIS SON,,,,,I THINK WE ALL NEED TO BE RESPECTFUL TO A QUALITY GUY AND HIS FAMILY!!! RICK WILL BE SADLY MISSED... THANK YOU
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
Well said Car Guy!! Keep eye for Memorial Services we are still working on.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
This is real upsetting news to my wife and i. I have known Rick for 15 years and we were really good friends. The past few years we kind of lost touch of each other because we both had families and you know how sometimes it can be very hard to get together. We still phoned each other to see how everything was going. I owe alot to Rick for he introduced me to my wife. He was a very generous man and was always there to help someone if they needed help. I will always remember the memories on the delta in his "big boat" having a great time. We had a lot of good times together. I will miss you. Rest in peace my friend.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Rick i will miss you forever. I cant believe your gone. I was just with you Thursday and Friday and will never see you again. So very sad. Will miss the Newport Beach trips together, and all the good times. I just cant believe it. RIP Rick Vargas. Forever in my thoughts.
Rachelle (aka Pink) as you would always say.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Funeral services for Rick are Tuesday, August 18th at 11:00am at Golden Hills Church.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Is this the church in Brentwood off of Lonetree? I noticed they have another one in Antioch.
I am so glad someone finally posted his services and want to pay my respects to Rick. I have known him since I was in high school and dated him for 5 years as he will always hold a special place in my heart!
RIP Rick..................
Thanks for the information, much appreciated!!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
Hey Everyone
Services for Rick:
GOlden Hills Community Church, corner of Lone Tree and Shady Willow, acros from Target Shopping Center....... Tues Aug 18th, 11am. Please spread the word so we can say goodbye to an awesome friend!
Joined: Jul 2009
Current Posts: 1
Words cannot describe how sad we are to hear about Rick. He was a larger than life character and most of his personal vehicles were larger than life also. We first saw Rick when we moved to Disco Bay in 1996 when he was living with all the crazy boys on Beaver like a bunch of rock stars. There were so many great times and lots of laughs through the years. The pismo trips, 12 people in the excurison at the sand dunes (still don't know how we didn't roll that thing), Rick doing hot laps in the rented motor home with GG flying around in the back of it, late night "broker tour" that found us 4-wheeling through the local farm land with SM, fishing with Vessel Assist for his off shore boat that was floating around the bottom of the Stockton Channel, and building his first sand car. The list goes on and on. Lots of people knew Rick and he touched many lives. Even people who didn't know him have their opinions. We once talked to a guy at a boat show that was going to buy himself "one of those Party Sangers". We all know there was just one!
We also know that Rick LOVED his son. I think the best thing that we can do is to get out those pictures and make copies, write down your stories, dig out the LKW stickers and t-shirts and "stuff" you have tucked away. Lets make a time capsule for Justin so that when he is ready he will be able to see what a great guy his dad was and how he lived hard and fast and essentially "did it all".
To Rick...thanks for the memories. Sorry you had to go so soon.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
I met Rick in like 95 when he was sleeping on a couch off Southpoint I think.Rick and I starting a great relationship right away ,starting I'd like to say Lift Kit in my driveway in a way .We were tricking out peoples rides in the area .I always followed Rick to his shops and was his main mechanic at Antioch for 16 hours a day to get things .Rick was always appreciative ,sometimes not always in words but in his actions,pay for parts you wanted and so one ,take you out eating and drinking . GG and I were just thinking of all the great /crazy things we did with Rick and were almost crying from laughter .Rick ,beeper boy and Lucasey were the original PUNKED guys .Sending 20 pizzas to each other ,call ambulances and claiming that another was 5150 and needed a straight jacket,ordering 10 yard dumpsters to be dropped in anothers driveway.I remember Hot wiring a tractor to put in someones driveway.Sorry for whoever that was .
When it came to Rick it was always going to be an adventure ,sometimes good ,bad and most of the time there was a lot of laughter involved. THis is what I will always remember about Rick.
I would see Rick on the road and would wave or occasionally at Alladinos BS for a while and he was always laughing and smiling.I meant to go by and visit but never happened .Now I wish I did .
Hey Rick...... thanks for a lot a great memories and you will be missed !!!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
There's too many funny great stories and memories. What a horrific loss. What a great heart.
Biggie , Biggie , Biggie can't you see , sometimes your words just hypnotize me.
I'm gonna find my , LKW " So do you girls like big boats? " T shirt. Love you buddy.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I've been watching the comments come up for the past week on this forum and I am so glad to see it come full circle. All of the great memories that so many of us have of Rick and the good times are how I think Rick would want to us all to remember him. I think the time capsule for Justin is the greatest idea yet! It's up to those of us who know and love Rick to make sure we keep his memory alive for his son. I am one of Rick's cousins and I adored him. I looked up to him wanted to be a rebel and a rock start just like him. He always carried me under his wing from childhood to adulthood. He'll always be the best man I know. So many of the memories posted are so familiar to me, the boats, the excursion, the road trips...I am so thankful for all of the memories that I have. You said it best Lenahans, Rick did live hard and fast and by all means he did it all. He always seemed to do it even better when he thought someone didin't believe in him.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Rick Vargas
The single most generous man I have ever met.
During my 4 year(97-01) relationship with Rick, not only as an employee, but what I considered, we were really good friends. I say with all sincerity, I had some of the best years of my life.
Rick showed me how to live life to its fullest, not just once, but every day. He was so spontaneous. Literally, he would just come up with some crazy idea, like, let's got to Vegas, right now, and the next thing ya know, he's flying us to Vegas, those weekends usually get a little fuzzy after that, but none the less, priceless memories.
Generosity- If you were at dinner with Rick, and you attempted to pay, good luck, he'd never let it happened. I tried every trick in the book, like cornering the waiter, or paying ahead of time, talking to the manager, everything, it never worked, he always one upped me, and I never got to pay. I once hid money in his truck, after dinner, as soon as he found it, he threw it out the window while driving down Disco Bay Blvd, while laughing. If I needed something to drive, he’d just throw me the keys to whatever he had, like his Porsche, Chevy truck, Excursion, I had his Party Sanger for two seasons. Who does that? Rick Vargas. If you even so much as hinted, that you were short on money, or wanted to buy something, he forced you to take the money, or he’d buy it for you. And, if you ask him why? He always said… Because I can.
I could go on and on, and write stories all day. I will never forget my time spent with him.
Although, I hadn’t spent time with him in recent years, I will always feel a little of that brotherly love for Rick.
It is sad that his son will not grow up to see how amazingly talented and dynamic his father was. Hopefully he will read all of these posts some day, and it will put a smile on his face…
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I met Rick in the early 80's. He lived across the street from the Boys Club in Alameda. We went to school together and his friends were my friends. I didn't ever meet someone who didn't like Rick. He was a happy guy and he really enjoyed working on cars. That's is when he and I got to know one another better. We had auto shop together and Rick was the man with all the right answers. We even worked on our own cars together from time to time. When I heard that he had passed my first thought was to myself was why god has taken a great man? My sympathy goes out to all of his family members and friends. He will surely be missed. *Remember his old orange truck? Funny that thang ran.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
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Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I remembered hanging out with Rick Vargas in Alameda working on his cars and boat behind his house, his white Jeep Cherokee "Penny One", I remember being roommates with Rick Vargas in Discovery Bay. I remember his first shop in Oakland by the Park Street Bridge, Race & Rock, his Grand Opening of "Lift Kit Warehouse" in Antioch.
My condolences to his family & RIP Rick you will be missed by us all.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
It's been awsome reading everyones stories about Rick Vargas! He's touched so many lives in so many different ways. So many stories and nothing buyt time to tell them! We all owe it to Rick to keep these stories going and rise as a community to share with his son what a great man his father was.
He was a good man, great business man and an even GREATER father. His son will be very proud some day and I'm sure his momma along with all his friends will keep his memory alive and well.
God bless you Rick and know you were loved here on this earth.
God bless you Rick!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
Rick services will be held tomorrow at Golden Hills Community Church 2401 Shady Willow Ln in Brentwood at 11am. We are doing a Time Capsule for Justin so if you have anything that you would like Justin to have in memory of his daddy please bring to the church. There will be a tool box sitting in the front entrance for you to place it in.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
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To my nephew, Jerry Vargas, Jr. I am so embarrassed by your latest posting on this forum. I hope that your comments will not deter Rick's many good friends from paying their respects at the memorial service tomorrow. Rick was not estranged from all of his extended family. I refuse to engage in any more ugliness on this public forum. If you choose to respond to me, you know my phone number as well as my email address.
Sharon Sloan
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 4
WHAT EVER IS SAID HERE WONT KEEP ME NOR SHOULD IT KEEP ANY BODY ELSE AWAY FROM BEING A DECENT PERSON AND SINCERLY PAYING THEIR RESPECTS TO A NICE KIND MAN,,,RICK HAD MANY FRIENDS THAT HE DID DIFFERENT THINGS WITH,,I AM SURE SOME WERE MUCH STRONGER FRIENDSHIPS THAN OTHERS,,WHOEVER PLANNED THE SERVICE FOR TOMORROW,,,,THANK YOU ,,AS IT GIVES RICKS FRIENDS OF ALL WALKS OF LIFE ,,WHATEVER CONNECTION THEY HAD WITH RICK A OPPORTUNITY TO PAY THEIR RESPECTS AND SAY GOOD BYE AND TREAT HIM LIKE A GOOD RESPECTFUL HUMAN BEING,,,LIKE HE WOULD US,,,,ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU FOR TOMORROW IN ADVANCE,,,,,,,,,,,,,CAR GUY
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 4
I have been friends with Rick for over 20yrs and know that this man had such a big heart. We all know Rick couldn't stand you!! Thank you to the guys that set tomorrows service up, since his "Family" didn't take the initiative and it's been 3 wks. Since when did anybody need your permission to do a service to FINALLY say "Good-bye" to such an awesome man, a brother you haven't spoke to in YEARS. We can finally put our great friend to rest!!!
R.I.P Ricky, you are truely missed!!
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 3
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This forum has been a bumpy ride which it was not to be . All I know is Rick was a man that everyone loved and hated at one time or another . He will and always will be the life of the party and today we lay him to rest .
RIP RICK You have touched my life and many others !!
Mongo
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 2
I just wanted to say thank you to "Pepsi Mike", Frank Rodgers and whoever else who was involved on organizing Rick's services. It was a very emotional service. Rick deserved a proper goodbye and thanks to you guys he got one. It was nice to see and talk to Carolyn and Justin. If you ever want to get together and look at all the pictures i have with Rick please let me know. He was definately the life of a party. You two take care and i love you both. As for Rick's brother, please stay off this forum. Let your brother rest in peace. We dont care of issues you may have with other individuals. Rick was a great man. Please respect that.
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
I felt compelled to write and extend condolences to the entire Vargus Family, all the friends, and anyone else associated within the parameters of this true-nightmare.
I grew-up with Rickie in Alameda. Knew him from the 1980-s thru to present day. I am very saddened to have lost contact with Rickie from about 1995'ish to present day. I use to pop-in on him to say "hi" from time-to-time at one of his Lift Kit Warehouse offices. Rick and I shared a beer a couple times during a conversation at a few different concerts over the years, where we had bumped into one-another, etc.etc.
I would like to THANK all the people who organized and put-on the great Funeral Service for Rick. Watching the video of pictures brought tears of joy, and brought back some great memories when we all had landcruisers in Alameda. Just awesome~!
I am very saddened to have lost contact with a great guy. It is a testament to "life" as we all grow and go into so many different angle's of that game called "life". I am sorry Rick felt he had no recourse or that he (Rickie) had no where to go. The Funeral was proof there were plenty of people around...... but again, "life" plays funny tricks on us all. There are always pressures' and demands that are unforeseen that WE all face from one time to another. I am soo sorry this was an ending to such a great young (39) man's life. WE must pick-up, move-on, smile and have fun... ... .... that is what Rickieee would want~!!
Be safe, God bless, and Condolences to ALL~!
James "Jim" Petersen III
Class of 1989 - Alameda High School
P.O. Box 1762 - Lafayette, CA. 94549
Joined: Aug 2009
Current Posts: 1
What a shame.. I did not know Rick too closely, nor do I have any fun stories to share. I did know him through business dealings as we ran a truck accessory store in Antioch as well, even though we didn't specialize in Lifted trucks. Rick was always polite to me, my guys as well as respectful of our operation. We also suffered from the bad economy, but can only imagine what losing his store did to him. I don't think people realize how deep that pride of ownership goes. Rick's worries are over. No more dealing with fussy customers for him ! I am very sad for his friends and family, who really feel the hurt. In cases like this it is amazing how many people show up to pay their respects, we should remember our friends in need before it gets to this point. As friends and family, I hope you comfort each other and be there for each other as it seems like Rick would have done himself.
Joined: Sep 2009
Current Posts: 1
I met Rick Vargas 5 years ago at a Good Guys show in Pleasanton, Ca. We had a very common ground. We both grew up in the Auto Industry. Lift Kit Warehouse was Rockin and Rollin when I met him. We helped each other to get into New Car Dealer accounts. His Lifts and Lowers my Interiors and Sunroofs. Rick was hustler and so I am but he definately on a greater level than me. I admired him for that. Also his gift of always being right on when it came to people in our industry. I know shutting down Lift Kit Warehouse was not easy, and he wasn't the only auto restyler that suffered. When the Banking system fell apart they were not financing $5000.00 Lifts. Those companies suffered hard and most of them shut down. Rick and I always kept in touch alot. That was our relationship. We talked alot on the phone. All the time. So It did not really suprise me that I was one of the last people to talk to him on the phone. Not a day goes by that I do not think of him and how he call me and say What's Goin On Girl???
Rick , I met some great people at your Memorial Service and as your brother posted that you didn't like funerals he's right. But I do know that if it made everyone feel better you would be all for it. Your friends did an awesome thing. Frank had me in tears. Todd kept me posted where the service was and you'd get a kick out of it, Because it was a beautiful church and all I could think of is what you would say Business is Good Here. Ha Ha!! Then there is Justin, the hug he gave me was priceless. He's beautiful. I met Carolyn and Marisa that day I know you wanted me to. If they every need anything I will be there. I know you would do the same for me. This is the part where I am suppose to say RIP blah blah blah!!!!!! I am sorry this is where I am selfish I wish you here. I miss you my friend. As you would always say to me What's Next?????????