Elizabeth Van Der Goes

Van der Goes, Elizabeth (Betsy), SHILLINGTON PA.  Elizabeth “Betsy” van der Goes died peacefully on Sunday, December 25, 2022 at Heritage of Green Hills after succumbing to Alzheimer's Disease.

Born in New York City in 1936, she lived most of her adult life in the Capital District area of New York State.  She graduated from Chatham High School in 1954 and Mildred Elley in 1955.   In 1983 she received a certificate in computer operation from The Sawyer School.

Betsy was the daughter of the late Virginia (Branham) Snare and Philip van der Goes.

She was the co-owner, along with her then husband, William “Bill” Savoca, of Betenbil Kennels in Altamont NY from the 1970’s until mid-1980s.

She retired from New York State Office of General Services after 16 years of service in 2000.

She is survived by her children, Thomas (Melodie) Savoca of Margate FL, Deborah (James) Raucci of Colonie, NY, Karen Tripp of Sinking Spring, PA, and Mark (Deborah) Savoca of Wharton, NJ. Her grandchildren, Chris Raucci of Colonie, NY, Paul Savoca of Los Angeles, CA, Alex Tripp of Reading, PA, Carlos Savoca of Tampa, FL, Rachel Savoca of Philadelphia, PA, and a step-grandson, Eric Tripp.

She is also survived by her brother Philip van der Goes of Harrisburg, PA and her sister-in-law Lorraine Snare of York, PA, several beloved nieces and nephews, and her beloved cat, Lily. She was predeceased by her brother, Adrian Snare of Etters, PA.

She enjoyed creating beautiful creations, whether knitting, crocheting, sewing, or painting.  Her other favorite pastimes were reading, playing piano, watching movies, and researching genealogy.  She loved to go to the beach and spent many years vacationing in Stone Harbor NJ with family and friends.

Betsy was very involved with AA and in August she celebrated 43 years of sobriety.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Betsy’s honor to World Vision at:  https://www.worldvision.org/donate.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.whelanschwartz.com