BANGOR and PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Sandra Marie Pasternack, aka Sandy Pasternak, who was born Jan. 20, 1943, died Sept. 28, 2011, after a three-year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease – ALS.
Sandra was born in New York City and went to high school and college there. She moved to Bangor and worked as office manager for her brother-in-law, Irwin Pasternak, in his medical practice. Then Sandra became director of the Jewish Community Center and then worked in sales. Through the years she was very active in community theater and other theater groups. She received many accolades for her performances. Sandra had a very pleasant singing voice and loved to entertain. She was a member of Beth Abraham Synagogue. Sandra was a U.S. Navy veteran. In 1999 Sandra had gender re-assignment surgery and moved to Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. She had many friends through support groups for people with gender issues. Sandra loved mentoring and would help people in many ways. Her absolute joy was her involvement in Etz Chaim Synagogue in Florida.
Sandra is survived by her three children, Susanne of New York City, Dan of Stonington and Tom of Bangor; grandchildren, great-grandchild; and a sister, Leila of Bangor.
Sandra was buried Oct. 3 at Beth David Cemetery, Hollywood, Fla. Donations in Sandra’s memory may be sent to the ALS Foundation.