Jean C. Skrzypczak

Jean Skrzypczak, 99, formerly of Clifton, New Jersey, passed away on June 28, 2017 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Paterson, New Jersey.
Jean was born in Ansonia, CT and returned to Poland with her family when she was a child. Her family knew that a war was imminent, and sent her back to Ansonia, CT to live with her Aunt and Uncle in 1939. She arrived at Ellis Island alone, with only a suitcase and a dress in hand, not being able to speak the English language. She was strong and determined though, and the next day she had a job, and shortly thereafter would walk miles to night school to learn English.
She was a wonderful seamstress, housekeeper, cook and lover of music. But above all, she was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her family was the most important thing in her life. She cherished the times she spent with them.
She is predeceased by her husband, Theodore, who passed in 1997, and her two brothers in Poland, Henry and Romek Ksepko. She is survived by her son, Ted Skripzak, and her daughter, Elizabeth (Betty) Kenyon, and her husband, Richard; her grandchildren - Thomas and his wife, Virginia; Andrew Clark; Jeanne Clark; and her great-grandchildren Hannah, Xzavior, Kaden, Auden and Amelia Clark, all from Connecticut. She also leaves behind her beloved parakeet, "Birdie".
In a culture that is so fast-moving now-a-days, "Nanny" taught us the value of family, faith, love, perseverance and to appreciate the simple beauties in life. She did all of this with a beautiful smile and a wonderful laugh. She was the rock of our family. We love you Nanny and will keep you in our hearts forever. Your values we will continue to pass on in our family.
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Vincent's Health Care and Rehabilitation Home in Cedar Grove, New Jersey, for taking love care of her for the last 3 years. Any contributions in her memory may be made to the Ladies' Auxiliary at St. Vincent's Health Care and Rehabilitation Home where mom enjoyed the many music and activity programs they provided.