Montevista | Roland Penamante

Roland Penamante. A public memorial service will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Monte Vista Memorial Gardens

Roland Penamante Obituary
Roland Marcelo Penamante March 31, 1977 – September 21, 2025 It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roland Marcelo Penamante, who left us far too soon at the age of 48. Roland passed away on September 21, 2025, in Tracy, California, following a tragic vehicle accident into the Delta Mendota Canal. Born on March 31, 1977, at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital in Salinas, CA, Roland was the beloved son of Norma Lee Penamante and Roland M. Cabagnot. From a young age, he displayed immense artistic talent, which led him compete with over 1500 students from Art School in Denver, Colorado, in the early 1990s. He received second place for his remarkable Anne Frank portrait—an accomplishment recognized and celebrated by the Mayor of Denver. Roland lost his eyesight in 2004. He later attended the East Bay Center for the Blind, where he continued to pursue learning and growth. Roland was a man of many passions: a gifted artist with pencil in hand, a student of karate and boxing, and a devoted Raiders fan who always cheered loudest on game day. Known for his warm spirit, generous heart, and comical nature, Roland had a way of making everyone feel welcome. He loved to give people nicknames and was recognized by his trademark gesture of peace—two fingers raised with a smile. He is survived by his loving mother, Norma Lee Penamante; his son, Roland M. Harris, and daughter-in-law Christina; his cherished granddaughters Rosaria, Charlie, and Celeste; his brothers Reggie, Rico, Christopher, and Rodan; his sister Florabel; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry his memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Penamante, along with four uncles, two aunts, and one cousin. A public memorial service will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Monte Vista Memorial Gardens, 3656 Las Colinas Rd, Livermore, CA 94551, with burial to follow at the same location. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate Roland’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to support funeral expenses and honor Roland’s legacy at GoFundMe. Roland will be remembered for his art, humor, kindness, and big heart. Though his life ended too soon, his love and laughter will continue to live on in all who knew him.