Betty Mae Pasternak

1924 - 2022

Betty Mae Hacker Pasternak, 97, passed away peacefully on May 13th, 2022 surrounded by her children at the Hospice of the Piedmont in Charlottesville. Born in Harrisburg, PA in 1924, she was the daughter of Clark and Almeda Shenk. Betty was married for 23 years to Joseph F Pasternak of Stanardsville, VA, who passed away in 2015.

The Shenk family relocated to Lancaster in the late 1920's, where her father founded Shenk Bros Sporting Goods. Betty was a graduate of The Pennsylvania State College, completing her degree in under 4 years during World War II. She achieved her teaching certificate, and returned to Lancaster to begin her teaching career as an elementary school teacher. She was an accomplished artist, and involved in many community organizations during her lifetime. Prior to moving to Charlottesville, she lived in Allentown PA for over 30 years during her first marriage to William H Hacker. In 1949, she and Bill purchased the original 1845 Manor House of Ironmaster Hiram Balliet in the village of Balllietsville, and together they restored the property to its original character just in time for the Lehigh County Sesquicentennial house tour in 1962. Later in their marriage, they built their dream home in Lower Macungie Township for their growing family. Betty retired to Charlottesville, VA in 1990.

Soon after she moved to Virginia, Betty met Joe Pasternak at a dance at the First Presbyterian Church. In 1992 they married, and together they shared many enjoyable years at Joe's farm in Greene County with spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Skyline, and also at Betty's townhouse in Hollymeade. Whenever possible, they traveled to Europe and vacationed at resorts in the VA countryside. Betty was an active member of The Senior Center of Charlottesville, where she sang in the choir, and a regular participant in their bridge club. For the past five years, Betty was a resident at Rosewood Village, where she continued to paint, and enjoyed the busy activities schedule. She will be fondly remembered by staff and residents for her engaging personality, humor, positive outlook, and her hats. Betty was never at a loss in making friends or conversation. She loved to be with people and throughout her lifetime, she entertained friends and family with her unique style of charm and grace.

Survivors: Betty will be missed by her children Suzanne K Fry of Hilton Head, SC, Julia A Aceto of Paoli, PA, William C Hacker of Allentown, Holly S Boyce of Spartanburg, SC, and their spouses. She also is survived by her 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by sister Jane Darmstaetter of Lancaster.

Services: A private graveside memorial service will be held on July 30th, in Lancaster, PA. Online expressions of sympathy may be placed at www.debordsnyder.com.

Contributions: Memorial donations may be made in Betty's memory to Phoebe Ministries, Office of Philanthropy, 1925 Turner St, Allentown, PA, 18104.