Maria Anne (Martello) Bernhardt, 65, of Manheim, PA, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2013 surrounded by her family at the Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy. She is enjoying her eternal home in heaven. Born in Gasperina, Italy, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Maria Innocenza (Fulginiti) Martello. Maria was the loving wife of Richard "Dick" Bernhardt with whom she celebrated 47 years of marriage.

Maria was a member of Grace Church of Lititz and the Italian Cultural Society. She was an amazing cook and you could never visit her home without being offered an abundance of delicious food. She loved spending time with her friends and family, and was a dedicated and compassionate caregiver throughout her lifetime.

She had a deep abiding faith in God and her strength and positive outlook were an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In addition to her husband Dick, Maria is survived by two sons: Rick Bernhardt, (husband of Beth) and David Bernhardt; her cousin Franco Celia and other extended family living in Italy. Her grandchildren, Alexander, Madelyn, Samuel, Andrew and Macy were one of the greatest joys of her life and they will miss her dearly. She will also be missed by Joseph, Maggie, Naomi, James, Hillary and many others who considered her "Nonna".

The family would like to acknowledge and express its sincerest thanks to all those involved in providing expert and compassionate care of Maria including: The Heart Group of Lancaster, the 5th floor staff of Lancaster General Hospital, VNA, Davita Dialysis, Cornerstone Family Health Associates, Hospice and Community Care, Lisa Rathman, and Drs. Slovak, Hardin, Alvarez and Smedira.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30AM on Saturday, August 24, 2013 at Grace Church, 501 W. Lincoln Avenue, Lititz, PA 17543 with Rev. William Willard officiating. A visitation and celebratory reception with light refreshments will be from 10-11:30AM at the church. Interment will be at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Maria's name to the Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 in lieu of flowers.