Harlene Chastka

Harlene Chastka was born Harlene Short on February 12, 1934 in Weatherford, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Harley Edward and Reva Irene (Rodman) Short. Harlene was the oldest of six children, the only daughter in the group. She grew up in Weatherford, attending and graduating from Weatherford High School. Following high school, Harlene attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, graduating with a Bachelors Degree in Pharmacy. Harlene was a well respected and distinguished pharmacist for many years. She worked for several hospitals and served as both pharmacist and head of pharmacy at many of those hospitals. She took great pride in being a pharmacist and was passionate about providing the best service she could to her patients. Harlene married Joseph L. Chastka on May 28, 1955. They had five children together, and were happily married until his death in 1980. Harlene was an avid reader. She was even a daily reader at St. Paul's The Apostle Catholic Church in Del City and later, St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Prague. She was also a scratch bowler, she was a member of multiple traveling bowling teams. Her greatest passion was her family, whom she loved dearly and she will be missed by many. Harlene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Joseph L. Chastka, two sons, Pat Chastka, Kelly Chastka; one daughter, Diane Michael White and five brothers, Merle Short, Arvin Short, Gary Short, Richard Short and Clifford Short. She is survived by one daughter, Deanna Byrd and her husband David, one son, Shaun Chastka and his wife, Shawn; twelve grandchildren, Kylie, Spencer, Harley, Dillon, Candice, Wendy, Joe, Ryan, Ashley, Scotty, Jessica, Jack and Jennifer; She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, one great great-grandchild and host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.