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Wilma Ginder Obituary

Wilma "Charlene" Ginder, 86, was born in November 1926 to Wesley B. and Etha W. Holton in Selma, Calif., and died Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013, in San Luis Obispo. Charlene learned there was value in most everything at an early age. Her father, while constructing their home in Fowler, Calif., had her straighten pulled nails from used lumber, prepping the used material for reuse in the new structure. Having a basement in the plans, she was introduced to hard work and what it can produce by helping her father remove the dirt by loading up her wagon as she hauled it out and onto the empty lot next door. Later, as a young teenager, she worked in a local bakery, having already excelled in baking and cooking. In high school, she met Vernon Ginder. When he returned from his service in World War II, they were married and began a life together that lasted 66 years. Her earlier experiences allowed her to participate in the building of their first home on the outskirts of Fresno, Calif., where they welcomed the second of two daughters. In the early 50s, Charlene opened a seamstress and alteration shop in downtown Fresno that she ran for several years. For decades, her skills in sewing produced clothes for her family and the many people who appreciated the fine work she did. In late 1950, Fresno State University broke ground with their new university, several stone throws from their home. Liking the country, she lobbied Vernon to buy acreage in Clovis, Calif., in 1952. There they built their second home and grew cotton and almonds and added two sons. She loved music, the movies and most anything that had a creative bent. In the 60s and early 70s, her most endearing working years were spent volunteering creating props for the Fresno Community Theatre. With little budget, the theatre benefitted from Charlene's skills. She would use many nominal items, such as cans, bottles, cardboard and such for the base and structure of her props, which she would then cover with various finishing products to make elaborate pieces. So good at anything she took on, her finished works drew members from the audience seeking to glorify the work she produced.  During her years in Clovis, she and Vernon developed many friendships and spent memorable years becoming members of a ballroom dance club, which expanded their circle of friends. Not liking hot valley weather, Charlene convinced Vernon to move to Los Osos, where they again personally built their last home, completing it in the early 80s. There, she spent her retirement years and took classes in art, knitting, sewing and computers, and spent time with family and friends (both old and new). A truly gifted woman, she will be dearly missed. Charlene's family would like to thank Sydney Creek's staff for their care, compassion and love during the last three years of her life. '?Charlene is survived by four children Jeanette Daley of Las Vegas, Nev.; Anita Hampton of Los Osos; Mark Lyle Ginder (Margaret) of Atascadero; and Dale Reid Ginder (Jennifer) of San Luis Obispo; brother, Duane Holton (Bettie) of Heber Springs, Ark.; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.'?She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon F. Ginder in 2011.'?Cremation has taken place, and as per her request, no service has been planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alzheimer's Association or a charity of your choice.

Published by San Luis Obispo County Tribune on Nov. 17, 2013.
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Dale and Jennifer

Thank you for sharing Charlene with me these last 25 years. Our many outings, the frequent Phase 10 card games, the many holiday and birthday dinners we shared, and lastly our beautiful train trip to Santa Barbara and our dinner by the ocean are just a few of the special memories I treasure.

Charlene was such sweet lady and she loved you dearly. She always trusted you two and knew you had her best interests at heart. It comforts me to know that when the time comes for me to receive more care, the two of you will be instrumental in joining with my other children in seeking the very best person or facility for me.
Charlene was so fortunate to have you.
I will miss her!
Bless you both for the years you lovingly devoted to both Charlene and Vernon.

Jan Bassi

December 3, 2013

Charlene was an amazingly talented woman. The time I spent with her showed me how much she enjoyed the arts, culture and crafting. Charlene was very humble with how talented she was.
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Dale and Jennifer. They unconditionally loved and cared for Charlene. They loved visiting, taking her places and just being together,they truly made her feel special until her last breath. Dale and his mom had a unique and deep bond throughout her life.
Charlene was special and will be missed by many.
Love to you both, Jill Gentilly and family

November 27, 2013

Our sincere sympathy for the loss of your Mother. She was such a grand lady and will be greatly missed. We feel very privileged to have been able to meet and spend time with both of your parents. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Charlene viewing all of her crafting creations. Vern was such a joy in his own right and made us laugh on numerous occasions. Your parents were very privileged to have Dale and Jennifer put their lives on hold to give them such unconditional love and passionate care. They always put your parent's needs before their own. I'm sure God has your parents together now under His care.
Love,
David and Annette Smith

Annette Smith

November 19, 2013

Beautiful tribute to a beautiful mom.
love,
Suzanne

November 17, 2013

My sincere sympathy at the loss of your other. I so enjoyed visiting her and Vern in Los Osos and being their CA for many years. Her finish work at the house was perfection as were her cookies.
Art Bourdon

Art Bourdon

November 17, 2013

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