Cruz J. Vargas, 97, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away Wednesday night, July 8, 2026, at William Newton Hospital.

Born January 21, 1929, in El Dorado, Kansas, he was the son of Manuel and Angelina (Sierra) Vargas. He was raised and received his education in Winfield. As a young boy, his family lived in boxcars in Winfield. Cruz began his career with the railroad at the age of 16, telling his employer he was 18 so he would be hired. He married Susana Loraine “Susie” Barron Acosta in 1947. The couple had six children, Paul, Tommy, Richard, Mike, Carlos, and Mary. They later divorced. Cruz worked for the railroad his entire life, retiring at the age of 62.

He was a member of the Catholic Church. He enjoyed socializing with co-workers, playing pool and shuffleboard. He always loved trains.

He is survived by his children, Richard Vargas; Mike Vargas (Renee); Mary Green (Norman); step-daughter Nina Smith; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and sister Jenny Cuellar.

In addition to his parents, Cruz was preceded in death by three sons, Paul, Carlos, and Tommy Vargas, siblings, Manuel Vargas, Jay Vargas, Ray Vargas, Reuben Perez, Mary Perez, Tommie Reyes, Benita Del Toro, Marina Navarrette, Ester Zanderholm, Richard Perez, and David Perez, two grandsons, Michael Vargas and Troy Vargas, and a great grandson Brock Jeffries.

The Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 AM, Thursday, July 16, 2026, with funeral services following at 11:00 AM at Miles Funeral Service. Interment will take place at Highland Cemetery. A viewing is scheduled at the funeral home on Wednesday afternoon from 1 to 5 PM and Thursday morning from 8:30 to 10:30.

A memorial has been established in Cruz’s name for Holy Name Catholic Church. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.