Claire S. (Selbst) Zaret

It is with deep sadness, we share with you the passing of Claire Simma Zaret nee Selbst on March 4, 2021. Born to the late Benjamin and Jennie Selbst on September 6, 1928, Claire was reared in Birmingham, MI and the middle child of three—Ronald (older) and David (younger). She was the beloved wife of the late Frank Zaret. Upon marriage to Frank, the couple raised two sons in Park Forest, IL, where she lived for 60 years.

An avid reader, Claire joined the staff in technical service at the Park Forest Public Library and worked there until her retirement. She cared deeply about art, sponsoring a purchase prize at the Park Forest Art Fair and was a regular at the Illinois Theatre Center before it closed. Passionate about politics as well, Claire was involved in the local chapters for the League of Women Voters and the National Council for Jewish Women and volunteered as an election judge at her local polling location.

From wife, mom, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, neighbor and friend, Claire was fiercely loyal to those whom she was close. She is survived by her sons Mark (Karen) and Bruce (Lori), grandchildren Jennifer (Greg), Katrina and Greyson, and great-grandson Nolan.

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Park Forest Historical Society, Tall Grass Arts Association, or National Council of Jewish Women.