The territory’s Public Defender David Vargas, passed away at his home yesterday morning. He was 77.
Vargas and his wife, Michelle, have been residents of American Samoa since 1995. He was an Assistant Public Defender when he first arrived, then moved into private practice and was a partner in the law firm of Rose, Joneson and Vargas.
Jennifer Joneson said, “I’ll always remember how much David Vargas loved the people who came in and out of his life. His positive attitude lifted everyone up. He loved Samoa. He was a true gentleman and very loyal to his clients. In court, he stood up for what he thought was right, regardless of whether he might later pay a price for doing so. Our community was blessed to have David in it.”
After the abrupt resignation of former Public Defender Michael White last year, Vargas accepted an appointment as temporary public defender until a permanent one was found.
He was confirmed by the Fono in September last year and up to the time of his passing, yesterday he was still carrying the workload of the Public Defender’s Office by himself in court, as he was the only attorney left in the office.
During his confirmation hearing in the Senate, Vargas was asked about the difficulty in getting attorneys here. This was his response.
Play Audio vargas-attorneys
Outside of the legal fraternity, Vargas was once very active in the Judo Association and led fundraising efforts which made it possible for local athletes to compete off-island and win awards.
The Vargas family were members of the International Community of the Holy Family Parish, Fatuoaiga.
Chairman Rep. Larry Sanitoa said, “It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of a good friend Mr. David Vargas. I’ve known Mr. Vargas both professionally and personally as a good member of the International Community at the Holy Family Parish.
“Mr. Vargas had a distinguished career as an attorney. His recent decision to sacrifice his own law office to help with the Public Defender Office as a Public Defender was notable and commendable. He served with great honor.
“On behalf of Bishop Kolio Etuale and our International Community, our sincerest condolences to his wife Michelle, son Niko and the entire Vargas family.”
