Sr. Mary Bernadette Wargo, OP, was born into eternal life May 7. Margaret Ann Wargo was born in Windber, Penn., on Sept. 1, 1922, to George and Mary (Ulicny) Wargo, the ninth of 10 children — eight girls and two boys.

Her early education was at the East End Public School. From fourth to eighth grades she attended SS. Cyril and Methodius School staffed by the Oxford Dominicans. From an early age she wanted to be a “sister” and attributed her vocation to the prayers of her mother, who always prayed that at least one of her eight daughters entered the convent.

Margaret entered the convent June 10, 1936. After two years of postulancy and one year of novitiate when she was given the name Sr. Mary Bernadette, she pronounced her simple vows Aug. 18, 1939. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Siena Heights College in Adrian and a master of education degree from St. Rose College in Albany, N.Y.

Her ministry for 27 years was in the field of education, teaching in the elementary and secondary schools staffed by the congregation — including in Michigan at SS. Andrew & Benedict and SS. Cyril & Methodius in Detroit; Sacred Heart in Flint; and Our Lady of the Lakes in Waterford. After her teaching ministry she was appointed general treasurer of the congregation and served faithfully for 25 years. For health reasons, she was assigned as local treasurer at the Motherhouse and secretary to the executive board.

After retirement, she was assigned to prayer ministry for the needs of the congregation and the world.

A funeral liturgy was held for her May 11 at the Oxford Motherhouse Chapel. Burial is in Our Lady of Sorrows Cemetery in Oxford.