Mary Lou Rohde, age 79, resident of Edinboro, PA since 1972, died Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at Sarah Reed Retirement Center in Erie, PA. Born on June 6, 1931 in Woodcock, Crawford County, PA, Mary Lou was the daughter of the late Merle “Bink” Bideaux and Winifred Dickson Bideaux.

Rohde, Mary LouMary Lou was raised in Woodcockboro where her family owned the community’s general store. Following graduation from Cambridge Springs High School, she earned a degree from Erie Commercial College and then was employed as Secretary to the President of the Crawford Trust Company in Meadville. Subsequently, Mary Lou was employed as the school librarian for Bloomfield Elementary School where her children were enrolled. Her husband’s career moved the family to Edinboro in 1972 where she spent the remainder of her working years as Secretary to the Pennsylvania State Education Association. She was treasured for her work ethic and dedication to those whom she served. Mary Lou always went above and beyond what was asked or needed of her, in every area of her life, and did so with a smile.

Mary Lou was a member of the Edinboro United Methodist Church. She was active in the Edinboro Faculty Wives and the Heather Garden Club. She shared in her husband’s love of roses as evident in their beautiful rose garden. She enjoyed people and was happiest when she was able to make others happy. Her infectious smile, warm heart and gift of conversation brought a smile to everyone she met. Mary Lou was a wonderful loving wife, mother, and friend.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, William F. Rohde, who passed February 26th of this year. She is survived by her two children – Eric Bideaux Rohde of Edinboro and his fianc???e, Amy Seely; and Lisa Bideaux Ganz and her husband, Kevin, of Erie; four grandchildren – Ryan William Rohde, Rachael Lynn Rohde; Tyler Roman Mello, and Morgan Leigh Mello.

There will be a memorial visitation at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 306 Erie Street, Edinboro on Monday, May 23, 2011 from 2-4 and 5-7. Following visitation, a memorial service will begin at 7:00 p.m. with Reverend Rand Edwards, United Methodist minister officiating. Memorials may be given to the Heather Garden Club of Edinboro, c/o Karen Mulholland, 5221 Gibson Hill Road, Edinboro, PA 16412.