Mary Joann Bermel (Mary Jo), 72, of Manheim Township, passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2016, at Lancaster General Hospital. She was born in McKeesport, Allegheny County to the late Michael John and Anna (Costello) Bodnar. Mary Jo and her husband Mike Bermel celebrated 45 years of marriage this past June 19th.

She earned her Masters of Reading and Language from Millersville University and taught 2nd and 3rd grades at Wharton and Fulton Elementary Schools. A very gifted teacher, who would think independently and critically, she loved to nurture and mold her students. She could magically connect with the children and always cared for their wellbeing.

At home, Mary Jo put everything into her family, and now her grown children Jake and Kate carry on her same path. A loving wife and mother, she was Aunt Mary Jo to everyone else. She loved arts and crafts, flowers and visiting Longwood Gardens. Mary Jo was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church.

Mary Jo is survived by her loving husband Mike and their two children, Kate Bermel and Jake Bermel, husband of Kara, their granddaughter Maya, and her sister Margaret Bodnar. Her older sisters Barbara and Susan preceded Mary Jo in death.

Private services and interment will be at the convenience of Mary Jo's family. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be mailed to Water Street Mission, P.O. Box 7267, Lancaster, PA 17604-7267.