Loretta Parks

Loretta was born in Vancouver and had the unique experience of growing up in a true Gypsy (Roma) family. She was raised by her parents in a very old Eastern traditional fashion. And taught by her mother and family the customs and traditions of the old Gypsies of the Eastern Caravans with its cultural foods, dance and costumes.

Loretta was raised in the family business which was a travelling carnival and circus show that performed though out North America. Her artistic talent showed early in her life. She enjoyed dancing the traditional Gypsy flamingo style dance from her heritage at the many family gatherings.

Her family settled in Winnipeg where she helped run the family business in Winnipeg’s China Town and their Main Street office locations. She enjoyed the culture of China Town in Winnipeg of that early time and she began to design dresses with her own unique design and style.

Then at 28 she met and married a kind Ukrainian man Stanley Parks. They raised two children, first their oldest son Bobby Parks, and then there daughter Tanya Parks where she worked at home on Atlantic Ave and ran a small business in fashion dress design. And she also started a new venture called Ann’s Perogey Palace with her husband Stanley and her mother-in-law Anne. Stanley continued working at Ann's Perogey Palace until his passing.

As a widow she returned with her family to Vancouver and travelled with the family businesses on summer carnivals and country fairs throughout Canada and the United States.

Eventually she moved with her family to be with her brother Steve and Judy in Omaha, Nebraska where she enjoyed raising her 2 children. And continued to travel throughout America for the family’s business opportunities.

In 1980 Loretta and her children returned to her hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba where she started a home bakery business where she decorated fancy pastries and cakes for local events and celebrations.

Eventually Loretta started a fashion design business with her daughter “Original Design’s by Laura” designing and hand crafting beaded earrings and lady’s fashions for boutiques and fashion shows.

Then in 1989 Loretta and her daughter Tanya, sister Sylvia and sister-in-law Mary opened a traditional Gypsy store at the Forks Market.

Loretta continued to work at the Market until her retirement. She made many friends and was well liked by all who met her. She had a warm and caring heart.

Loretta will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by her son Bobby and his wife Cindy. Her daughter Tanya and Walt. Bobby’s sons Conner and Corbin and great grandchild Conner’s son Julius

She will be greatly missed by all her family. Her younger brother Steve and wife Judy, her sister in-law Mary and nieces and nephews of the family.

Loretta’s spirit and zest for life lives on in the many lives she touched. She enjoyed music and opera performances with her dear friend Mary-Ann.