Loretta T. (Peloquin) Skaza, 103, of Chicopee, was peacefully called to her heavenly home on Monday, September 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her daughter and son-in-law. She had been receiving compassionate hospice care in Belchertown for the past four and a half months.
Born to the late Antoine and Cecile (St. Michele) Peloquin on September 22, 1921, Loretta was educated at Assumption Grammar School and graduated from Cathedral High School. After working in office positions for five years, she began her career at AG Spalding in Chicopee, dedicating 27 years of service to the golf club department before her retirement.
Those who knew Loretta remember her as an intelligent, vivacious woman with impeccable style and an infectious zest for life. A true social butterfly, she thrived in the company of friends and family, earning admiration for her boundless energy and warm spirit.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life as a devoted communicant at St. Stanislaus Basilica, where she served as an alto in the choir, funeral altar server, and active member of the Rosary Society. In 2001, she embarked on a transformative St. Francis of Assisi Pilgrimage to Italy, where she received a blessing during a general audience with Pope John Paul II. Later in life, she was equally blessed to attend Pope Francis' World Family Day in Philadelphia, cherishing the rare privilege of being in the presence of two Popes.
Loretta's community involvement was extensive and meaningful. As a member and former President of the Chicopee Falls Women's Club, she participated in charity events, local celebrations, and even graced the runway as a model in the club's fashion shows. At the Chicopee Senior Center, she embraced every opportunity for growth and joy, participating in tap dancing, aerobics, and both acrylic and oil painting classes. She was also a cherished member of the Singing, Swinging Seniors and enjoyed Pokeno games with the Golden Agers at the Castle of the Knights.
Her artistic talents were remarkable and diverse. From learning piano and organ at a young age to mastering the art of sewing clothing for her children and creating beautiful window treatments for her home, Loretta's creativity knew no bounds. In her later years, she embraced technology with enthusiasm, becoming proficient in word processing, email, texting, instant messaging, and internet browsing. She skillfully navigated her Apple iPhone, utilizing social media, FaceTime, photo editing, and online banking and shopping platforms, particularly enjoying QVC and the Home Shopping Network.
Loretta's artistic legacy includes beautiful paintings displayed in local exhibitions, handcrafted crocheted and knitted gifts for loved ones, and memorable tap dancing performances at senior centers and The Big E. She was an accomplished dancer, enjoying tap, line, square, and ballroom dancing until a mild stroke in 2014 slowed her steps but never dimmed her spirit.
Throughout her remarkable 103 years, Loretta remained intellectually curious and well-informed. She was an avid reader who stayed current with world events, maintaining her daily ritual of reading the newspaper from cover to cover while enjoying her morning coffee, even in her final days.
On September 22, 2021, Loretta celebrated her centennial birthday surrounded by family, church members, and community friends. The celebration was made even more special by a surprise visit from St. Stanislaus Pastor Brad Milunski, who offered a birthday blessing and Holy Communion in her honor. Her remarkable milestone was officially recognized with three Commonwealth of Massachusetts proclamations from State Senator Eric Lesser, Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano, and Chicopee Mayor John Vieau, who declared her birthday "Loretta Skaza Appreciation Day" in the City of Chicopee. Additional honors followed from Richard E. Neal, Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means, and President Joe Biden, who recognized her as a proud member of The Greatest Generation.
Loretta's adventurous spirit led her to explore many corners of the world. Beyond her meaningful pilgrimages, she traveled to Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and numerous states throughout the USA, with Hawaii holding a special place in her heart. She also delighted in discovering the beauty of popular New England destinations.
Loretta was preceded in death by her beloved husband and high school sweetheart, Stanley J. Skaza, in 1995, and recently by her cherished younger sister, Rachel M. Kosiorek of Chicopee, a loss that touched her heart deeply.
She leaves behind a loving legacy through her children: Alan L. Skaza and his wife Jeanne-Marie of Belchertown, Jan M. Skaza and his wife Joan of Chicopee, Karen A. Skaza and her husband Victor G. Robidoux of Belchertown, and Stanley A. Skaza and his partner Serena DeSantis of Chicopee. Her memory will be treasured by three devoted grandsons: Eric and his wife Laurie of Beverly, Jonathan of Chicopee, and Joey and his wife Helen of Greenfield. She also leaves behind one precious great-granddaughter, Gianna; three beloved great-grandsons, Christopher, Jackson, and Ethan; her faithful companion, Max the granddog; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, beginning at 8:30 AM at Grise' Funeral Home, 280 Springfield Street, Chicopee, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Basilica, 566 Front Street, Chicopee. Burial will follow at St. Stanislaus Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Loretta's memory to St. Stanislaus School, 534 Front Street, Chicopee, MA 01013, or Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.