The life of Renaissance Senior Living of Vero Beach resident Helen T. Pajak began on a crisp January day in 1934, in Warwick, New York. The daughter of Jacob and Victoria Shuback, Helen grew up surrounded by the lively bustle of a family farm in Pine Island, working alongside her five siblings: Tekla, Victor, Arthur, Theodore, and Jack. Days were filled with hard work, laughter, and the sense of togetherness that comes from tending the land as a family.



It was in Pine Island, at a local dance, that Helen met a young man who would become her partner for life—Victor Pajak. Their story together began with a simple dance and blossomed into a marriage that started on October 14th, 1957. Together, Helen and Victor built a family of their own, welcoming four children: Victor Jr., Donna, Barbara, and Debbie.

Helen’s life was never confined to just one place. With Victor, she traveled across North Africa, the Mediterranean, and Europe, collecting memories and adventures along the way. They found joy in the sun and sea, spending cherished time in Hawaii and Florida as well.

After Victor’s passing, Helen embraced a new chapter by moving to Las Vegas for nine years, finding her footing and new friendships in the desert city. Eventually, she settled in Florida to be closer to her son, bringing with her the warmth and resilience that have always defined her.

Helen’s journey is a testament to family, adventure, and an open heart—rooted on a New York farm, carried across continents, and held together by love.