Sandra was born in McKinley County, Gallup, New Mexico on July 8, 1943 to Nick and Monica Burrola. In 1946 the family moved from their home in Gallup to live in Bakersfield, California. Throughout her primary years Sandra attended both public and private elementary schools, completing her education at Garces Memorial High School. Her teenage years were shared with her sister Lori, learning to drive, going to dances, and starting families of their own. Their bond and experiences kept them together throughout her life.

Sandra married Steven A. Chavaria in September of 1967. She had two children Stephanie and Steven Chavaria. She was a good mother; she took care of her children. As a single mother she managed to work, take her children to school, and be present for birthdays, ballet recitals and football games. When she became a grandmother, her grandson Alec changed her life. They had their own language, an understanding of each other, and when together they caused a lot of mischief. Her second grandson Nicolas made her role of grandmother complete. They shared their time together talking and watching movies. Though her relationships with her grandsons were quite different her love for them was great. When she became a great grandmother to Grayson and Kaleb, she was fulfilled. She would often take a deep breath when they arrived, smiling, watching them she knew they were her legacy.

Throughout her life Sandra had many different careers. She attended Federico's College of beauty and became a licensed beautician. Several years later Sandra was employed by Kern Medical Center where she worked in many different departments. While working at K.M.C. she became an interpreter of Spanish for the doctors and patients throughout the hospital and clinics. After thirty years of service, she retired as an Admitting Clerk 2. While working at K.M.C. she also worked part time for Brighthouse Network, and in 2013 after many years of working she finally retired completely. Through her many careers she met many wonderful people who became her lifelong friends.

Sandra enjoyed many different hobbies. She loved bowling and joined several different bowling leagues with her father, friends, daughter and son-in-law. She became an antique dealer for several years buying and selling her wares. She loved going to yard sales procuring trinkets, and treasure wherever she travelled. She always found someplace to go and found something good to collect.

Traveling was her freedom. Sandra traveled with her family to every beach, and theme park in California. Las Vegas was her favorite place to be with family, friends, overnight or a three day stay, she was always ready to go. Throughout her life she traveled to many different states and had wonderful memories of her adventures with family.

Sandra was vulnerable and strong. She faced the bad and enjoyed the good to live a life well-lived.

Services : Wednesday, January 27, 2021 @ 12:00 pm Hillcrest Memorial Park 9101 Kern Canyon Road Bakersfield, CA 93306 Due to Covid restrictions please wear a mask

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bakersfield Californian on Jan. 26, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Sandra Chavaria

Sponsored by Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest & Hillcrest Memorial Park.

6 Entries

Margaret Cathey

January 26, 2022

Sandra was not only my co-worker for 15 years, she was my friend! She was full of joy and loved to laugh! She was such a dedicated worker, every employer's ideal employee! We shared many good times away from work over the years! I miss her and I pray for her family to find comfort.

Yvonne Scott

January 30, 2021

I am so sorry to read about the death of Mrs Sandra Chavaria. Please accept my deepest condolences. Even though I did not know her personally, I read her obituary and indeed, she sounds like a wonderful person...most likely, a loving Mother and Grandmother. Your loss is great. I hope you will find some comfort in the happy memories you have of her. When I lost my Mother, my memories helped me deal with my grief. I wish this for you as well. I hope that as each day passes you will find acceptance and peace. It will come, each day will get better. You will not forget her, but you will eventually for get the pain. And life will go on for all of you, this is probably what she wanted for her family. Please know, that my thoughts and prayers are with you today.

Margaret Cathey

January 27, 2021

I was overcome with grief seeing the sad news of this amazing friend, Sandra Chavaria. Hit me hard. She was so caring and took great care of her elderly Mother faithfully. She made working fun but productive. I guess I thought she would always be here. With broken heart, I send my deepest condolences to Steven and Stephanie and all of her loved ones! Rest in peace dear friend.

Jenny Hernandez

January 27, 2021

Sending my condolences to her cherished family. I worked with Sandra at Bright House Networks for over 10 years and lost touch with her in the past few years and am very saddened to hear of her passing. I will always cherish the memories I have of her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and those she loved so dearly. Rest In Peace Sandra.

D T

January 27, 2021

I am sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my condolences. May the love of God, friends and family comfort you through your grief. 2nd Thessalonians 2: 16,17

Nick Hernandez

January 26, 2021

Sandra was a wonderful Godmother and always will hold a special place in my heart. Godspeed to you Nina.
Nick Hernandez

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