LeiLani Jeanine Cook Slagel, fondly known as Grandma Momo, passed away on April 14, 2023, in Fresno, CA, surrounded by her loved ones. Born and raised in Fresno, LeiLani was a beloved member of the community who touched the hearts of all who knew her.
LeiLani's journey began in Fresno, where she attended Fresno High School and excelled as a cheerleader and square dancer. After graduating, she pursued higher education at California State University, Fresno, earning a degree in education. LeiLani went on to dedicate 30 years of her life to teaching in the Fresno Unified School District, where she inspired countless students and colleagues alike. She was so proud to be an educator.
LeiLani was preceded in death by her mother Katherine Schafer Cook Cisco, her father Jack Cook, her husband Loren Leonard Slagel, her son Dean Loren Slagel, and her sister Janet Cook Watson.
Lani was the granddaughter of German immigrants from Russia and excelled in German cooking, later mastering Italian cuisine thanks to her mother.
LeiLani and Loren met while working at the Fresno Bee. Loren, immediately smitten by her, knew she was the one. After a short courtship, they were married in 1960. Lani and Loren established their first home in Fresno, CA, and began their family. In 1973, the family moved to their dream home in Clovis, where they tended to a bountiful vegetable garden and fruit trees that LeiLani was particularly proud of. LeiLani's home was always open to guests, and she would warmly greet guests with "Willkommen!"
In addition to being an excellent cook, LeiLani was an accomplished dancer and particularly loved line dancing. She was also an avid traveler, venturing to destinations such as Hong Kong, Peru, Switzerland, France, Italy, Tahiti, and Greece, among many others. Her favorite adventures in the US included Route 66, Hawaii, Wyoming, New York, and Nashville.
Lani's legacy lives on through her daughter, Lisa, and son-in-law James Federico of Fresno, grandson Jacob Federico and his fiancé Kelly Baxter of Salt Lake City, and her granddaughter Lauren Federico of San Diego. Her passing is deeply felt by all who knew her, and her memory will forever be cherished. Rest in peace, Grandma Momo.
A celebration of life will be at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns, and Blair Funeral Home, 836 E Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720 on Tuesday 4-25-23 at 10 am. Luncheon to follow.
Donations may be made by sending a check to Art of Life Cancer Foundation, 8050 North Palm Ave. Suite 300, Fresno, CA 93711, please reference LeiLani's name on the check. Donations can also be made to the donor's favorite charity.
A celebration of life for LeiLani will be held Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, California 93720.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Cook Slagel family.
