Michael Vargo, who led Parrish Tire’s wholesale division from the 1980s through 2013, recently died. He was 77 years old.
Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, Vargo briefly taught school after graduating from The University of Akron, “before discovering his passion for the tire business,” according to his obituary.
He began his tire industry career in Akron with General Tire & Rubber Co. and later relocated to Winston-Salem, N.C., to take the role of vice president of sales at Parrish Tire.
While there, Vargo helped develop the Turnpike commercial medium truck tire brand, which was manufactured by General Tire. He also helped develop and grow Tread Tech, a collection of private label tire brands that were distributed globally.
In addition, Vargo was part owner of two Parrish-McIntyre retail stores in the Akron area.
“Mike cherished his children and valued family. He enjoyed travel and visiting his childhood friends. Anyone that knew Mike will remember his sense of humor and infectious laugh. He loved life and enjoyed every minute of it. He will be missed dearly.”
Preceded in death by his parents, William and Grace Vargo, he is survived by son, Jonathan Vargo; daughter, Alexandra Vargo, and granddaughter Willow McCaskill; siblings Diana (Robert) Taylor; Dawn (Keith) Collins; Debra (Eudulio) Solis; Mari Vargo; brother-in-law, William Breehl, and many nieces and nephews.
“As he wished, there will be no funeral services. The Vargo family humbly asks all friends and colleagues to celebrate the life of Michael J. Vargo in your heart and memory.”
