Ann T. (Triano) Bederka

Ann Bederka, aged 102, just shy of her 103rd birthday, passed away on September 8, 2023, on a day filled with special significance, coinciding with her mother's and the Blessed Mother's birthdays.

Ann was born to Anthony and Mary Triano, joining her sisters Julie D’Andrea, Isabella Triano, Rose Melillo, and Katie Triano in the Triano family. She was also the beloved wife of the late Frank Bederka.

Ann is survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: Gerard and Jeri-Ann Melillo, Billy and Dotti D’Andrea, Sharon Grello, Jerri Henig, and Maria Salon. She was a beloved great aunt to Melissa Melillo-Smith. Ann's warm presence extended to many other family members, friends, and neighbors.

Ann led an impressive life, working as a data analyst at Western Electric during World War II, where she also served as a code girl decoding enemy messages. She later worked at AT&T but left her career to care for her ailing family members. Despite her busy schedule, she generously volunteered at Saint James' hospital. 

In her free time, Ann pursued her passion for figure skating, becoming a semi-professional skater with offers to turn professional. It was on the skating rink where she met her husband, Frank Bederka, a renowned organist among skaters and musicians.

Upon retirement, Ann dedicated herself to volunteer work, including bingo events, church activities, and founding non-profits like Toys for Tots. She generously contributed to her church and was a devout Catholic throughout her life.

Ann was a remarkable woman who achieved much before the age of 70. Her wit, humor, and zest for life endeared her to many. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service that will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, September 14, 2023 from 3pm to 7pm at Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals, 145 St. Catherine Blvd., Toms River.  A Mass of Catholic Burial will be held at 11:00am, Friday, September 15, 2023 at St. Maximilian Kolbe RC Church, Toms River with Burial to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, New Jersey.  

Condolences may  be sent to the family by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com.

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