Nestor Canales Vargas, a long-time resident of Stanwood and Camano Island passed away peacefully in his home with family by his side on June 27, 2023. He was 89 years old. Nestor was born on March 4,1934 in Los Indios, Texas to parents Candelario and Luisa Vargas. He was one of eleven children and spent his early years in Los Indios, Texas and Reynosa, Mexico.

Nestor and his wife, Nila moved to Stanwood in 1960 where they raised their children. He worked as a truck driver and spent his free time umpiring baseball games, camping, and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his parents, seven of his siblings, his wife of 49 years, Nila Vargas, his daughter Emma (Vargas) Candia and his grandson Rey Candia.

He is survived by his brothers Polo Vargas and Noel Vargas, his sister Candelaria Tovias, his children Jose Luis (Sofia) Vargas, Luisa (Daniel) Mora, Jose (Robin) Vargas, Omero (Becky) Vargas, Nestor (Valori) Vargas Jr., Pete (Sunny) Vargas, 21 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Nestor spent his retirement years doing the things he enjoyed most. He traveled, tended to his garden, cared for his dog, Pola and most importantly, spent time with his family. His loved his family deeply and was very proud and protective of them. He will be dearly missed.

Funeral service will be held at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Stanwood on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 11:00 am.