Vance Wayne Matlock, a devoted owner and trainer in the world of horse racing, passed away at the age of 87, on April 27th at 2:56 A.M. His love for horses was only matched by his love for his wife, Mabel Matlock, who preceded him in death. Vance was also preceded in death by his mother, Mamie Matlock; son, Kenneth Harned and granddaughter, Rachel Sweeney. He leaves behind a legacy of bountiful love and dedication to his children, stepchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Vance was born on June 18, 1937, in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Vance served his country honorably in the Navy before dedicating his adult life to serving others as a State Farm agent in California. While pursuing a career in California, Vance met and cherished his beloved wife, Mabel, who he shares 6 children, 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. With a family full of love, Vance pursued his passion of horse racing further, by purchasing a ranch in Bakersfield, California in the late 80's. In 1995, growing greater in the horse racing industry, Vance Matlock and family purchased a Ranch in Fittstown, Oklahoma. This move was the kickstart to Vance and Mabel's calm life on the western front. Upon retirement, he would spend his days in Oklahoma to pursue his passion for horse racing and spend cherished moments with his family. Vance's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness and unwavering love.

Vance is survived by his loving family; children, Todd Wayne Matlock of Long Beach, CA, Roger Harned of Bakersfield, CA, Clara Annette Jones of Bakersfield, CA, Billie June Huizar of Norwalk, CA and Tina Sweeney of Bradenton, FL; grandchildren, Shannon Cadalora of La Habra, CA, Vanessa Wyrick of Bakersfield, CA, Jessica Dotson of Bradenton, FL, Jamers Jones of Bakersfield, CA, Christopher Harned of San Francisco, CA, Amber Wood of Reno, NV, and Hannah Harned of Tehachapi, CA; 14 great grandchildren and a host of other family, friends and loved ones.