Firefighter Dies From Cancer, Funeral Plans Announced

PERRY HALL, MD — A Baltimore County firefighter who died from cancer last week will be remembered at a public funeral this week.

Lt. Raymond Vargas Jr. died Thursday after serving in the Baltimore County Fire Department since September 2013. He served at these fire stations: Eastview, Fullerton, Edgemere, Golden Ring, Sparrows Point, Dundalk, Hillendale and most recently Perry Hall.

"Lieutenant Vargas dedicated his life to serving and protecting Baltimore County residents," the fire department said in a Friday press release announcing his death. "Throughout his career, Ray built a reputation as a skilled firefighter, emergency medical technician, mentor, leader, and friend to many."

Vargas' death is classified as a line-of-duty death. State law recognizes that firefighters face an increased risk of certain cancers because of their repeated exposure to toxic substances encountered in the line of duty. Maryland firefighters who have served for at least 10 years and are diagnosed with specific types of cancer — including those affecting the bladder, kidneys and other vital organs — are presumed to have contracted the disease during their public safety service.

"Lieutenant Vargas' legacy of service, strength, and dedication will continue to inspire us all. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our extended public safety family and the community," the fire department said in its press release.

Vargas' memorial will be held Wednesday at the Maryland State Fairgrounds Cow Palace, located in Timonium at 2200 York Road.

A public viewing will be held from 9 a.m. to noon.

Doors open for the funeral at 12:45 p.m. The service starts at 1 p.m.

A public burial will be held afterward at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, located in Timonium at 200 E. Padonia Road.

In lieu of flowers, relatives asked for donations in Vargas' honor to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network at firefightercancersupport.org.

More funeral details are available at sites.google.com/view/rayvargas.

"May we honor Lieutenant Vargas' memory by carrying forward the same passion and commitment he displayed daily," the fire department press release said.

Vargas is survived by his loving wife, Caroline Vargas, and their son, Gavin Vargas. He is also survived by his mother, Yvonne Medina, and his sisters, Yvette Vargas, Jenny Vargas, Jessica Perez, and Mary Vargas. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews: Jaron Pichardo, Aisha Vargas, Milton Torres, Jaden Diaz, Malik Pérez, Trinity Perez, Aliyah Perez, Genesis Vargas, Jordan Torres, Anastasia Torres, and Lyrik Yvonne, Valentina Mia Pantojas, and Amelia Snow Pantojas.