Beloved Turlock Resident Alison Wenstrand Passes Away at 78

Alison's warm spirit and generous nature touched many lives in her community.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:35pm

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph shot through condensation or rain-streaked glass, composed of soft pools of warm color and light that evoke the intimate, familial atmosphere of a celebration of life.The vibrant celebration of Alison's life will bring together the community she touched with her warmth and kindness.Turlock Today

Alison Johnston Wenstrand, a lifelong resident of Turlock and Denair, California, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at the age of 78. Alison was known for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and ability to connect with everyone she met. She overcame a brain tumor diagnosis in 2005 and went on to enjoy many more years with her loving family.

Why it matters

Alison's story resonates with the Turlock community, where she was a beloved figure known for her warmth, volunteerism, and resilience in the face of a serious health challenge. Her passing is a loss felt by many in the area who were touched by her genuine kindness and community involvement.

The details

Alison devoted much of her life to her family, working alongside them at Modesto Steel Company and later as a teller at Wells Fargo, where her friendly nature made her a natural fit. She also found joy in volunteering to read to elementary school children. In 2005, Alison was diagnosed with a Grade IV glioblastoma brain tumor and given 12-18 months to live, but she fought the disease and became cancer-free, going on to enjoy many more years with her loved ones.

  • Alison was born on May 23, 1947, in Turlock, California.
  • She was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2005.
  • Alison passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Turlock, California.
  • A Celebration of Life honoring Alison will be held on April 25, 2026.

The players

Alison Johnston Wenstrand

A lifelong resident of Turlock and Denair, California, who was known for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and ability to connect with everyone she met. She overcame a brain tumor diagnosis in 2005 and went on to enjoy many more years with her loving family.

Don Wenstrand

Alison's beloved husband of 59 years, whom she married in 1967 in Carmel Highlands, California.

Grant Wenstrand

Alison's son, who lives in San Diego, California, with his wife Teresa.

Colin Wenstrand

Alison's son, who lives in Denair, California, with his wife Laura.

Brigg Wenstrand

Alison's grandson, known as 'Nana' to her grandchildren.

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What’s next

A Celebration of Life honoring Alison will be held on April 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at Turlock Memorial Park and Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather to remember and celebrate her life. The family encourages guests to wear bright colors in celebration of Alison's life. A reception will follow at the California State Stanislaus University Event Center.

The takeaway

Alison's story is a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and the lasting impact one person can have on a community. Her warm spirit and genuine connection with others will be deeply missed, but her legacy of compassion and community involvement will continue to inspire those who knew her.