June 7, 2025 — One Year Later
One year after her passing, family and friends continue to remember Ann M. Bernardo for the energy, warmth and dedication she brought to every stage of her life.
Ann passed on June 7, 2025, at the age of 84. Though a year has passed, those who knew her still speak of her unmistakable presence — a woman with a larger-than-life personality who approached family, work and community with enthusiasm and generosity.
Born to Edward and Grace Bonitz, Ann grew up in Belmont alongside her sister, Joan. She often credited her years in Girl Scouts with helping shape the confidence and determination that defined her throughout adulthood. After earning her degree in nutrition from Regis College, she completed her Registered Dietitian training at Yale New Haven Hospital.
Her professional life reflected both ambition and compassion. Early in her career, Ann traveled across the country as an account executive for Market Forge commercial kitchen equipment, helping schools develop healthier lunch programs. She later served as director of Food and Nutrition for Framingham’s public schools, overseeing programs that touched the daily lives of thousands of students.
For 57 years, Ann called Wayland home, where she and her husband, Carl, raised their three sons: Ted, Michael and Chris. Family remained at the center of her life. She spent countless hours driving to practices, school events and games, cheering from the sidelines and supporting her children in every endeavor.
As her sons grew older, Ann began a second chapter at Regis College, first as a fundraising assistant and eventually rising to become director of Information Technology and a member of the board of directors. She later continued her work in education and development at Saint Mark’s School, managing alumni and development programs.
In recent years, many in the community came to know Ann through her work at Carriage House at Lee’s Farm, where she worked as a receptionist. Family members said she treasured the relationships she built there with residents and staff alike, finding joy in the daily conversations and connections that became part of her routine.
Those closest to Ann remember her as deeply devoted to the people she loved, endlessly engaged with others and always willing to step forward when help was needed. Her humor, determination and presence left a lasting impression on friends, colleagues and neighbors throughout the communities she served.
She is survived by her husband, Carl; sons Ted, Chris and Michael; daughter-in-law Anissa; and grandsons Andrew and Matthew.
A year later, her family says her absence is still deeply felt, but so too is gratitude for the example she set through a life defined by service, resilience and love for others.
