Wendell Paul Zurilgen

Wendell Paul "Dutch" Zurilgen, 83, of Modesto, CA, passed away at Kaiser Hospital after a short illness on November 22, 2011. He was born in Beaumont, CA, on September 27, 1928 to Albert Theodor Zurilgen and Bonnie Marie Black. He graduated from Chowchilla High School, Chowchilla CA in 1948, and worked on the family farm until he entered the US Army during the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion. Wendell's greatest accomplishment was being the father of Mark and Juli Zurilgen of Modesto, CA. and was a father figure to his many Nieces and Nephews after their fathers had passed away.

He was preceded in death by his parents Albert Theodor Zurilgen and Bonnie Marie Black and seven brothers, Albert Frederick, John Ernest, Leo Bruce, Ernest John, William Edward, Theodor Minerod, and Arnold Louis Zurilgen. He is survived by his sister Alberta Viola Zurilgen. Wendell's pride and joy was his 7 grandchildren; Savannah, Lindsay, Lauren, Clinton, Nicholas, Mary and Miranda and 3 Great Grandchildren; Arcellia, Corbin and Asher.

He worked as a salesman for many years selling Grocery goods for Engskil and Bruce Smith to restaurants and later worked very hard at Major Hoskins (SYSCO) as a truck driver. In his later years he started his own business selling produce to area restaurants.

He was a longstanding member of the San Joaquin Swiss Club and several other organizations that supported youth causes including Boys Town, Shriners Hospital and the US Olympic Team. He received a Certificate of Appreciation from US Senator Boxer for his contributions to Society of Handicapped Children and Adults of Stanislaus County. He was a former member of the Eagles Club.

A visitation will be held on Monday November 28, 2011 at Lakewood Funeral Home, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA 95326 from 4 to 8 pm, with a rosary at 6 pm. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at, Lakewood Funeral Home, Heritage Chapel, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA 95326. A reception will follow services at the home of his Granddaughter Lauren Bakus.