Longtime University of the Pacific Professor Richard “Dick” Vargo passed away Jan. 20, 2020. He was 78. 

Professor Vargo found his home at University of the Pacific, where he taught for over 30 years. He joined the Eberhardt School of Business as an accounting professor in 1981 and also was an adjunct professor of accounting at McGeorge School of Law from 1982–1993. In 2013, Professor Vargo became an emeritus professor of accounting.

During his time at the university, Professor Vargo also shared his love of playing and coaching soccer as the faculty advisor for Pacific’s soccer team.

A lifelong educator, Professor Vargo taught at University of Southern California, William and Mary College in Williamsburg, Virginia, and University of Texas at Arlington before joining Pacific. Professor Vargo wrote a series of books about church accounting, budgeting, finance and internal control. His most well-known publication was “The author's guide to accounting and financial reporting publications.” A highlight of his academic life was his experience in Poland as a university professor helping businesses and entrepreneurs transition to capitalism. He received recognition from former president of Poland Lech Walesa for his contributions to the country’s transition.

Professor Vargo is preceded in death by his mother, Mary; his father, Joseph; and his sister, Roberta. He is survived by his wife, Melinda; and their three sons, Matthew Joseph, Blaine Alan and Michael Tyler.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations are welcome in his name at PALS Animal Rescue, 1040 W. Kettleman Lane, Suite 379, Lodi, CA 95240 or to The Environmental Defense Fund, c/o Gift Processing, 257 Park Ave. South, 17th Floor, New York, NY 10010.