With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Paula Cornish Chandler. Her 94-year journey in this world ended October 3, 2026, as her new eternal life began. She cherished her family, faith and friends, believed in community service and shared kindness, laughter and love in abundance throughout her life.

Paula was born on December 26, 1931, in Madison to Paul and Annetta Cornish. She was raised in Fort Atkinson, WI and graduated as Valedictorian from Fort Atkinson High School. She attended UW-Madison on a debate scholarship and was a member of the UW Forensic Society and debate team for all 4 years and won numerous awards. She was also President of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta. The UW faculty and Alumni Association named her Outstanding Junior Woman in 1952 and Outstanding Senior Woman in 1953. She was a trailblazer for women and what they could accomplish. Graduating with a degree in speech correction, she went on to work with the Neenah school system and then met the love of her life, Dr. William “Bill” Chandler. Six months later they were married and started their family. Nancy, Mary, Anne and Susan were the focus of their life and became known to many, even today, as “The Chandler Girls.”

Paula and Bill called each other “Pal” and were married for 52 years until Bill passed away in 2007. Their relationship was extraordinary and special. Paula was a devoted, joyful and fun spouse and mother, raising her family in Appleton, where she lived for 70 years. She also made sure that their cottage on Moshawquit Lake was a place of joy and relaxation for her children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. She gave us all the love of a sunset cruise on the pontoon boat..and the love of sports. An avid Packers fan and season ticket holder (yes- she and Bill were at the Ice Bowl)- Paula also cheered on the Brewers, Badgers and Bucks and followed her favorite golfers and tennis players. She was the greatest cheerleader for her family. She made each of her family members feel uniquely loved for who they are; from preparing their favorite food to knowing the name of a great grandchild’s stuffed animal to congratulating them for accomplishments no matter how big or small. She was always there to support, listen and love us. Paula was also very friendly and believed everyone deserved the same measure of respect. She would be as welcoming to a C.E.O. as she was to someone bagging groceries.

Paula and Bill believed in volunteering to serve the community. They were honored with the 2006 Paul and Elaine Groth award for philanthropy and mentoring in Appleton. Paula was also a founding member and President of both the Appleton Medical Center Auxiliary and the Appleton Medical Center Foundation. She ran the hospital gift shop as a volunteer for 27 years. Paula was on the boards of the YMCA and of the Red Cross, President of Silver Cross King’s Daughters Charity, President of the First Congregational Church Woman’s Fellowship and was also the first woman Moderator of the church. She helped create the church prayer shawl program and establish the church Memorial Garden- the place where her remains will be placed during a private family service.

Paula is survived by her children, Nancy Wilkinson (Tim), Mary Radtke (Tim), Anne Scannell (George) and Susan Chandler. Grandchildren Andy (Amanda), Marie (Damon), Tommy (Amanda), Jeni (Charlie), Mikey (Mary), Katie (Derek), Johnny (Ally), Kevin, Bo (Emily), Dibet (Edwin), Jimmy (Cori), Willie, Paula and 16 Great Grandchildren. Also, nieces and nephews and family friends. Preceded in death by her “Pal” Bill Chandler, her parents and sister Sarah, son-in-law Brian and other family members.

Paula, Mom, Grandma, GG, you lived a wonderful life, it was a blessing for all of us. We will always love you.

A family service will be held in the near future.

Memorials to the charity of your choice or perform an act of kindness and think of Paula.