We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Perla Maria Rabena-Duarte, a beloved member of the Arbuckle community. Perla peacefully passed away on March 28, 2025, at the age of 41, surrounded by love.
Perla was born on August 20, 1983, in Tecacho, Michoacán, Mexico, and was the second youngest of eight siblings. In 1990, her family made the journey to the United States, first settling in Arbuckle before later moving to Williams.
Perla attended Williams Elementary School and Williams Junior Senior High School. Her commitment to education was clear from a young age, and she worked hard to achieve excellence. She was honored to be named Valedictorian of her class in 2001.
After high school, Perla continued her academic journey at CSU Sacramento, earning a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with Honors, a Master’s degree, and a Teaching/Counseling Credential. Perla immediately began her career by helping high school seniors at Pioneer High School navigate the college enrollment process. She later became the lead counselor at Pierce High School, where she dedicated 14 years to guiding and inspiring students.
Throughout her life, Perla’s love for family, her appreciation for fine wine, and her passion for exploring the world brought her joy. She was a loyal supporter of the Sacramento Kings, and her heart was always devoted to education, believing in its power to transform lives. Above all, the greatest joy in Perla’s life came from the love she shared with her daughter, Sofia, and her husband, Trevor.
Perla leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Trevor Rabena; her daughter, Sofia Rabena; her two Corgis, Gizmo and Cuzco; and their mixed-breed dog, Daisy. She is also survived by her mother, Lidia Duarte, and her siblings: Maria Duarte, Gloria Davalos (Jose), Yolanda Duarte (Octavio), Alberto Duarte (Nancy), Jose Duarte, and Gaby Duarte (Michael), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Perla was preceded in death by her father, David Duarte Herrera, and her sister, Laura Duarte.
Perla’s warmth, dedication, and love for those around her will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
The visitation will be from 6-8:00pm with rosary at 7:00PM on Friday, April 11, 2025, at McNary Moore Funeral Home, 107 5th St, Colusa, CA, 95932.
A Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 408 Laurel St, Arbuckle, CA 95912. Following the Mass, all are invited to gather at Charter Oaks Ranch, 437 Wildwood Road, Arbuckle, CA.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Perla Rabena Memorial Fund, c/o Umpqua Bank, P.O. Box 1218, Arbuckle, CA 95912.
Tuesday, May 20, 2025