In loving memory of Loretta Mae Clarken, (December 1, 1940-September 13, 2025)

With love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Loretta Clarken, a woman of strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to others. She passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and selfless care.

Loretta was born in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Kenneth Wilgus and Emma Moss. She was the beloved life partner of John Pajenski for 55 wonderful years, until his passing in October, 2024. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories.

A dedicated homemaker, Loretta poured her heart into creating a warm and loving home for her family. Later in life, she became a home health aide and hospital worker. Loretta had a true calling for caring for others. She touched countless lives with her compassion and generosity, always putting the needs of others before her own. A cancer survivor, she showed incredible strength and perseverance, embodying the same care and kindness she gave so freely to others.

She was a devoted mother to Kathy and her husband Stan and James and his wife Jesenia, and she now reunites with her children Peter, Joe, Glenda, and Diane, who passed before her. She is also survived by her beloved daughters in law Karen and Kathy, who were like daughters to her.

Loretta's love extended to her four siblings, Jimmy, Kenny, Emma, and Johnny. As well as her nieces, nephews, and her many grandchildren; Melissa, Pete, Joey Jr., Chris, Michelle, Nicole, Billy, Ashley, James Jr., and Nathan. She was also blessed with a beautiful legacy of great-grandchildren; Zach, Chris Jr., Ariel, Donovan, and Willow who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

She embraced John's children-Johnny, Raymond, and Linda-as her own, along with their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren always extending her love and kindness.

Loretta's warmth, wisdom, and selfless heart will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she so generously shared with the world.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a mass of Christian Burial at St. James R.C. Church, Totowa on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Laurel Grove Memorial Park, Totowa. Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, N.J. Division,Inc., P.O Box P, Manasquan, N.J. 08736. Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd., Totowa is in charge of arrangements.