Arlene Roland

Arlene Roland passed away at the age of 83 on August 18, 2021, in her home with her youngest son and loyal pets by her side.  A resident of Bakersfield from birth, she was known in the community as a beacon of strength, a trailblazer in independence, and an archetype for the bonds of family.

Arlene graduated from town mainstays Bakersfield High School and Bakersfield College. Young, fearless, and motivated by a calling, she traveled to Santa Barbara and graduated from Knapp School of Nursing in 1959. She then returned to Bakersfield and devoted her professional life to healing, working as a nurse for such offices and institutions as Dr. McDonald, M.D., Mercy Hospital, and Parkview Julian, all the while mentoring others in the field as a leader.

Her most cherished accomplishment, however, was her devotion as a single mother, wherein she nurtured the lives of three charming boys. She broke through the barriers of the generations before her, striving for success as both a careerwoman and a power matriarch, a triumph that would echo in influence for all generations to follow.

Arlene was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William and Ann Garcia, and her cherished baby sister Elizabeth Ann Garcia. She is survived by her sister Christine Rendon (Gilbert); her three children William Roland (Cindy), David Roland, and Gregory Roland (Mary); her grandchildren Elizabeth Roland Carsjens (Shane), Rhae Roland, Emily Roland Luth (John), and Gabriela Roland; Eric, Jessalyn (Kenny) and Elysia, plus Oliver and Colton, including her new favorite, great grandson Alexander Carsjens; nephews and nieces Gilbert Rendon (Esmeralda), Anne Wolfe (George), John Rendon (Stephanie), and Stephanie Cardoza (Marcos); and numerous cousins and friends.  Mom had numerous dogs and cats in her lifetime, which she loved with all of her heart.  Her beloved Mia was by her side in her final moments.

She will be remembered by all for her strength and independence, her warm heart, her tenacious dedication to growth, her sass and unabashed propensity to speak her mind, her infectious laughter, her powerful presence and special conversations, and the endless spring of her love. Arlene wished everyone to know she lived a full life with lots of happiness and love, and wanted to be remembered in celebration.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday September 1st at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.  Interment will follow at Union Cemetery.