Artha E. (Pallan) Hockenberry

Artha Elaine Hockenberry passed away on May, 26th, 2026 at age 76 in Shippensburg, PA.

Born to Arthur “Art” (Sr.) and Agnes Pallan on August 8th, 1949, Artha was a native of Mars, PA. She graduated from Mars Area High School Class of 1969. She soon after welcomed her son named Riley.

While living in the Greater Pittsburgh area, she was a restaurant server and made appearances on the locally-aired Paul Gaudino Family Fitness Show.

In the mid-1980s, Artha planted new roots in South Central PA where she was an Oscillator Technician for ten years with Piezo Crystal Company. She cultivated a beloved circle of friends and was an active participant with The Carlisle Follies. Artha later settled into a cozy ranch-style mountain home in Shippensburg, PA, with her husband, Dennis.

Whether she was in her favorite job of all-time as a lifeguard, staffing the voting polls on Election Day, or making consistent blood donations for those in critical need, Artha loved showing up for her community. She found the utmost joy in life’s simplest pleasures like complimenting people to make their day, raising cats and dogs, drawing, and watching her favorite soap opera The Young and The Restless. 

More than anything, Artha cherished her friendships and loved her family. Her two grandchildren were the light of her life. Those who knew her will fondly miss her sweet soul, beautiful smile, and infectious laugh that was impossible not to smile back at.

She is survived by her son, Riley Whittenberger IV and daughter-in-law, Irene; her grandchildren, Asia and Patrick Whittenberger; her sister Andrea "Pidge" Welsh, and brother Arthur Pallan Jr.

She was preceded in passing by her parents; her sister Anne Olescyski; and her husband Dennis Hockenberry.

She was known throughout her life by the surnames Pallan, Whittenberger, and Bachman.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages financial or blood donations to the American Red Cross in honor of Artha's dedication to giving blood and her beloved years as a lifeguard.

Friends will be received at the McDonald-Aeberli Funeral Home, Inc. 238 Crowe Ave. Mars, PA on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 1-3 PM. Services will follow at 3 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in Mars Cemetery. Directions and condolences are available at www.mcdonald-aeberli.com.