THE VILLAGES– Donald J. Pakeltis, Sr., 78, passed from this life, Tuesday, January 21, 2014. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late Casimir and Helen (Novickas) Pakkeltis. Donald was an electrical engineer in the aeronautics industry. He served his country with distinction as an Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He was most proud of receiving a letter of thanks from the president of South Korea, Yi Seungman for his service during the Korean War. He enjoyed flying model planes, bowling, scuba diving and pistol shooting. He came to The Villages from Monroe, CT in 2004. He was a Roman Catholic and member of St. Timothy Catholic Community. He was a life member of the American Legion Post 347, Lady Lake, the VFW of Trumbull, CT and the Winifred Men’s Club, The Villages. He was most proud of his marriage of 57 years to Betty “BJ” (Tennant) Pakeltis and his family. Besides his parents, Donald was predeceased by his son, Donald J. Pakeltis, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Betty “BJ” Pakeltis, daughters, Pamela Griffin (Patrick) of New Fairfield, CT, Carrie Price (Christopher) of Monroe, CT. a sister, Dorothy Veres of Milford, CT, 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at the Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services 1511 Buenos Aires Blvd., The Villages on Thursday, January 30, 2014 at 6 p.m. The family will receive relatives and friends prior to the service beginning at 5 p.m. Burial with Military Honors will be at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 31, 2014 at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.