Richard Gilbert Vargas, 82, of Dartmouth, succumbed to illness Tuesday afternoon following a courageous fight, exemplary of the man he was. Richard was born on March 20th, 1933 in Los Angles, California, and moved to this area with his family over 40 years ago. Richard, predeceased by his daughter Brenda Gomes, is survived by his wife Lillian Vargas (Medeiros), sons Richard Jr. and Michael, daughter in law Katherine, grandchildren; Lauren Pimentel and husband Erik Pimentel, Timothy Cregan and Ava Vargas, and great-granddaughter Lily-Ann Pimentel. He also leaves behind four sisters, a brother, and several nieces and nephews. Richard was a proud US Army Veteran who fought in the Korean War. He was a distinguished soldier holding two Purple Hearts, Bronze Star medal, Korean Service medal with one Silver Service Star and two Bronze Service Stars, Good Conduct medal, National Defense Service medal, Combat Infantryman badge, and United Nations Service medal. Richard earned a Master‘s degree from Boston University School of Social Work. He was a retired PTSD specialist from the Brockton VA Hospital, and touched the lives of all who were fortunate to cross his path. Richard enjoyed writing poetry, listening to ball games on the radio, spending time with his family, and was never one to turn down a trip to the casino. To understand the spirit, with which Richard lived his life, is to understand that he never allowed obstacles to hinder him; his dedication to his country or his love of life, family and friends. Calling hours are scheduled for Monday, August 17th from 5p - 8p at Perry Funeral Home located at 111 Dartmouth St., New Bedford. Relatives and friends are invited as well to meet at Perry Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 18th at 8:45am for procession to St. Julie Billiart Parish located at 494 Slocum Rd., Dartmouth, for funeral mass at 10am. Burial services will follow at 1p located in National Cemetery, Connery Ave., Bourne. Please omit flowers.