Surrounded by her family, Paula Marie Slenders passed away; a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was born in Den Dunjen, Holland, and immigrated to America in 1952, with her new husband Andrew. They arrived at Ellis Island, NY, with their faith in God and their ambition to succeed. They resided in Green Bay, WI and secured work with a local dairy. Together they learned to read, write and speak English. They remained in Green Bay until 1964, working and saving for their own dairy. They relocated to Chino, CA in 1964, and ultimately Fresno County in 1971, where they established a dairy. They moved their family and dairy to Chowchilla in 1980, where the family dairy and farm is still operating under the direction of their sons, John and Tony Slenders. Paula was famous for her ability to cook and entertain with her Dutch cookies and coffee. She was full of energy and gave so much love to her family. She was a devoted Catholic and enjoyed participating in church activities. She was very proud and supportive of her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Andrew; and son Paul. Paula is survived by her six sons, John and his wife Janice of Chowchilla, Tony and his wife Susan of Chowchilla, Andrew Jr. and his wife Arlete of Laton, Bernie and his wife Terri of Chowchilla, Danny of Chowchilla and Patrick of Merced; her 12 grandchildren, Nick, Stephanie, Gina, Tina, Tim, Chelsey, Trevor, Austin, Johnna, Alexa, Van, and Patrick Jr.; and her brother, Ad Sleutjes of Sherman Oaks, CA. Recitation of the Rosary was at St. Columba Catholic Church. A Funeral Service was be held at St. Columba on October 27, 2005.
