With profound sadness and broken hearts, we announce the passing of our precious baby boy, Michael Aiden Vargas, age 18 years, 6 months and 6 days. Aiden passed on May 31st, 2026; while doing what he loved, hanging with his dad on the water.

Born on November 25, 2007, in Washington Terrace, Utah, Aiden was the beloved son of Michael and Alicia Vargas. Aiden attended Crestview High School and would have been a senior this fall. He had been accepted to the Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration program at Okaloosa Technical College for dual enrollment. He dreamed of owning his own HVAC company someday. Though his life was far too short, the impact he made on those who knew and loved him will last forever.

Aiden embraced life with enthusiasm, adventure, and a contagious spirit that drew people to him wherever he went. He loved music, cars—especially his beloved Red Toyota Camry—making new friends, fishing, playing video games, and spending time with those he cared about most. He lived every day to the fullest and found joy in even the simplest moments.

Known for his quick wit, infectious laughter, and larger-than-life personality, Aiden had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed. He was a genuine, dynamic, and exuberant young man whose presence could brighten any room. Friends and family often found themselves laughing harder and smiling more, simply because Aiden was there. “That boy!!” was a familiar refrain in his family, always paired with a head shake and a giggle.

Aiden often joked that he had “four moms”—his mother, Alicia; his sisters, Briana and Marissa; and his bossy 6 year old niece, Adele. To escape those “moms” Aiden and his dad cherished their time together; just dad and his little boy. The love they all shared was one of the greatest joys of his life.

A dedicated martial artist, Aiden earned a black belt in Goju-Ryu Karate, while in Weatherford, Oklahoma and recently a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, accomplishments that reflected his perseverance, determination and confidence. His martial arts training reinforced the foundation of respect and discipline that his parents sought for him. He was well on his way of following in his father’s footsteps of becoming a great man!

His love of fishing began young, when he proudly won “The Smallest Fish” award at a summer camp in Weatherford. Recently, while celebrating his father’s 50th birthday on a deep-sea trip, he returned home with a large tuna, triggerfish, and several red snappers—proof that he had long outgrown that childhood title.

Aiden’s family takes comfort in knowing that his life, though brief, was filled with love, laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories. His adventurous spirit, kind heart, and joyful energy will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Aiden is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Alicia Vargas, of Crestview, Florida; his sisters, Briana Gidney, of Crestview, Florida and Marissa Allison Vargas of Orlando, Florida; his cherished niece, Adele Fritz of Crestview, Florida; and his beloved pet, Piccolo, a sunglow leopard gecko. He is also survived by his grandparents, Darlene Holsinger of Temecula, California; James Davis of Topock, Arizona; Vidalina Williams of Waterbury, Connecticut; and Miguel Vargas of Waterbury, Connecticut, along with his Uncle, numerous Titis, Tios, cousins and friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, and friendship.

Services will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by services at 12:00 p.m. For those who feel inclined, donations may be made in Aiden’s name to Daphne Search & Rescue, whose dedication to bringing Aiden home meant so much to our family.

Though we grieve the loss of Aiden’s physical presence, we carry his memory in our hearts forever. His laughter, his adventurous spirit, and the love he shared so freely will remain with us always.

“Life is too short to waste it!” -Aiden Vargas

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Aiden Vargas, please visit our floral store.