Mathias C. Roland, 85, passed away quietly after a long illness on November 28, 2012 at Mayo Hospital. Mat immigrated to Mayport, Florida from Portugal with his parents in 1937 at age 10. He graduated from Fletcher High School and received a degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida. He was married to his beloved wife, Rose Bradley Roland, for over 62 years. He was a loving and devoted father to their five children. They lived in Atlantic Beach for the past 50 years.
Mat and Rose started their wholesale seafood processing business in Mayport, Florida then expanded with operations in Cape Canaveral, Fernandina Beach and Ft. Myers Beach; they also owned many shrimp boats. Mat was instrumental in promoting and developing the seafood industry throughout Florida and was a prominent member of The Southeastern Fisheries Association.
Mat was an avid tennis player and golfer at Selva Marina Country Club where years ago he served as House Chairman. He even surfed from time to time with his sons, encouraging them which resulted in them becoming surf champions.
Mat was loved by all those who knew him for his humor, his kindness and his enormous generosity. He will be missed by all those lives he touched, especially the people of Mayport who were very dear to him.
In addition to his wife, Mat is survived by his children and their spouses: Paul, Joseph (Jennifer), Vincent, Brad (Priscilla), Laura (Albin Koch); his grandchildren and their spouses: Ashley Des Enfants (Thom), Nell, Nathan, Brandon (Melissa), Laine; great-grandchildren: Vincent James and Bryce.
The family will hold a private ceremony and send their heartfelt thanks to their friends and all those who cared for Mat for their kindness and loving support throughout the years. Should anyone care to make a donation in Mat’s honor, please do so to the charity of their choice.
Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home 1701 Beach Blvd Jacksonville Beach 904-249-2374
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