John Pajenski, Sr.

John J. Pajenski, Sr., of Wayne, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2014, at the remarkable age of 101. Born in Passaic to Joseph and Mary (Furtak) Pajenski, John was the second-born child in his family, growing up with a strong sense of responsibility and resilience.

John graduated from Passaic High School and embarked on a lifelong career as an auto mechanic, working first at Vernards Esso on Broadway in Passaic. He later took his skills to York Trailers in Butler, NJ, where he continued to demonstrate his dedication and expertise. Even in his later years, John's spirit remained as vibrant as ever. Evan at the age of 101, he was known for driving daily to CVS in his 2008 Chevy Impala to pick up The Herald News—his favorite newspaper, which he read from cover to cover. And nothing would keep John from fetching his newspaper. His tenacity was legendary. Even at the age of 100, if necessary, he would get out early in the morning to shovel snow off his car so he could go for his morning paper run. His love for cars extended to his family life—he had lots of fun taking his son, John, Jr., to Raceway Park dragstrip to watch him race a 1968 Chevy Chevelle Super Sport.

A lover of life's simple pleasures, John cherished the companionship of his loyal dogs, Sandy and Tippy. His zest for life shone through even at the age of 99 when he was still mowing his lawn. Known for his kind heart and generosity - though admittedly a bit cranky at times - John would gladly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

John is survived by his three children: John Pajenski, Jr., and his companion Tina of Wayne; Linda Estremera and her husband Felix of Colonia; and Raymond Pajenski of Brick. He was also the grandfather of five grandchildren: Brian and his wife Jennifer, Daniel, Steven, Raymond and his wife Jada, and Randi and her husband Kyle. His legacy lives on in five great-grandchildren: Jayden, Maverick, Isabella, Lucas, and Grayson. John is also survived by his sister, Sophie Sikora, and her husband Frederick of Forked River, as well as his dear companion Loretta Clarkson, along with Loretta’s children, Jimmy and Kathy, and their families.

John was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Mary Pajenski, his brother Stanley Pajenski, his sister Stella Novobilski and his beloved dogs Sandy and Tippy.

Those planning an expression of sympathy in John’s name are asked to consider:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105-9959

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