Lou Clugsten

Lou Clugsten, 78, of Bordentown, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 in his home.

Born in McKeesport, PA, raised in both Fairless Hills, PA and Hamilton Twp, NJ, he first began his career working at the U.S. Steel Company for many years as a Mill Wright in the open hearth. After the steel mill closure, his natural creative and artistic talents led him to work as a floral designer for Joseph's Florist, Yardley Florist, and Makrancy's Florist, as well as interior decorating with Joyce Jennings Designs. He then worked for many years distributing soda for 7up before attending the Philadelphia Culinary Institute where he obtained his Associates Degree in Hospitality Management. He later went on to work for the State of New Jersey at the Information Technology Help Desk retiring in 2018 after 25 years of service.

He shared his creativity with family, friends and neighbors with his amazing cooking, baking, decorating, and maintaining his beautiful yard, with a pool and Koi pond that was the place for many gatherings. He also enjoyed crocheting and made many baby blankets for each first newborn of family members, friends and coworkers ~ every stitch, a stitch of love. Lou was also a very devoted dance Dad for many years at The Dance Shop and was a familiar face behind the stage.

Predeceased by his parents, Robert and Mae (Staymates) Clugsten; his brother, Robert Clugsten Sr.; his brother-in-law, Gene Hill, Sr.; and sister-in-law, Catherine Hill; he is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Joan (Hill) Clugsten; his daughter and son-in-law, Carrie and Brent O'Connor Sr.; his grandchildren, Brent Jr., Sabrina and Trista O'Connor; Erica and her husband Mikey Boccellari, his great grandchildren, Avery, M.J., Ruby, and Wesley Boccellari; his siblings and their spouses; Jim and Kathleen Clugsten, Wayne and Tracy Clugsten, Terri and Steve Gallo, and David Clugsten; his in-laws, Bernadette Clugsten, Leona and Dean Hall, Bruce Hill, Patricia Hill, Gary Hill, Karl and Kathryn Hill, Carol and Paul Hardifer, Keith and Carla Hill; and his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Saul Colonial Home.

Funeral services will begin 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ.

Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Hamilton, New Jersey.