Giselle Saskor

Giselle Saskor, 61, of Naugatuck, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, perseverance, and unconditional love for her family, friends, and the many animals who were such an important part of her life.

Giselle was born on May 29, 1965, in Manhattan, New York. She grew up in Wilton, Connecticut, and later made her home in Naugatuck, Connecticut, where she built a life around the things she loved most: animals, music, creativity, and the people she cared for.

Giselle had a lifelong passion for animals, dedicating more than 30 years to working with dogs professionally. Through her business, Park Avenue Kennels, she bred, trained, groomed, and handled dogs, sharing her knowledge and helping others whenever she could. She worked with many breeds throughout the years, but had a special love for English Foxhounds and Boxers. Her dedication to dogs went far beyond her work; they were a central part of her life and a constant source of happiness.

Among all the dogs she loved, Manny held an especially special place in her heart. Her best friend, Manny (The Prince of Park Avenue), along with her other dogs, Roxy (Foxy Roxy) and Ruby (The Princess of Park Avenue), were spoiled with an endless supply of toys, treats, gifts, and costumes, all given with the same affection she showed the many animals who she loved throughout the years.

Giselle was also an incredibly creative person. She attended Ithaca College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in music and graphic arts, and spent many years exploring her artistic interests through graphic design, illustration, jewelry design, and photography. Her creativity was another reflection of her individuality and her desire to make things that brought beauty and joy into the world.

Music was another constant in Giselle's life. She was a member of the Waterbury Chorale for over 12 years and also sang in her church choir. She loved music of all kinds but she especially enjoyed the Chorale's Broadway-themed performances, which brought together her love of music, entertainment, and community.

Above all, Giselle will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, warmth, and sense of humor. She was someone who would take the time to listen when others needed someone to talk to, offering a sympathetic ear, thoughtful advice, and help whenever she could. She had a way of making people feel heard and cared for, often putting the needs of others before her own.

Giselle faced many hardships throughout her life, but her determination and perseverance remained defining parts of who she was. Even when life was difficult, she continued to find joy in the little things. Sometimes, happiness was as simple as sharing a home-cooked dinner and sitting down to watch a movie with someone she loved. Those quiet moments meant the world to her and reflected what mattered most: connection, comfort, and time spent together.

Giselle was the daughter of the late Ludwig Anthony Saskor and Barbara “Tobé” Saskor. She is survived by her daughter, Amber Clavette; her son, Colin Saskor; her sister, Kristina Saskor; her brother, Mike Saskor; her sister-in-law, Brynne Saskor; and her nephew, Stone Saskor as well as many loving cousins and friends. 

Giselle's life was defined by the love she gave without hesitation, the people and animals she cared for, and her ability to keep moving forward through life’s challenges without letting them define her. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the animals she devoted herself to, the music she shared, and the everyday moments of happiness she found along the way. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. May she now rest in the peace and comfort she so freely gave to others.

A memorial service celebrating Giselle's life will be held on Saturday, November 14, at 1:00 p.m. at The Congregational Church of Naugatuck, 9 Division St, Naugatuck, CT 06770.

Those wishing to honor Giselle’s memory are welcome to send flowers for her memorial service or make a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation, a cause close to her family’s heart due to the impact the disease has had on their lives.