Mario Bernardone, 71, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, at Niagara Hospice House. Born in Genk, Belgium, he was the beloved son of the late Umberto and Maria (Ruzzi) Bernardone.

Mario was raised in his hometown of Casalbordino, Italy, where he attended local schools and served faithfully as an altar boy. In 1969, at the age of 16, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Niagara Falls, where he graduated from LaSalle Senior High School in 1972. On October 25, 1975, he married the love of his life, Maria (Amelia) Bernardone, at the former Sacred Heart Church in Niagara Falls.

Mario began his career at Union Carbide, where he worked for nine years, followed by a brief period at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. He later retired from Occidental Chemical Company after more than 31 years of dedicated service as a chemical operator.

In his younger years, Mario was an avid soccer and baseball player, both in Casalbordino and Niagara Falls. He enjoyed playing poker for over 45 years and was known for his sharp mind and competitive spirit. A devout Catholic, Mario was also a longtime member of St. Joseph's Church. He will be remembered for his realistic outlook, his devotion to family, and the deep love he held for his grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy.

Mario is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Maria; his children, Jason (Elizabeth) Bernardone, Laura (Michael) DeMarco, and Julia Maria (Nathan) Shumaker; his cherished grandchildren, Max, Dominic, Alina, Nola, Michael, Jordana, and Morgan; his sister, Giuliana (Nino) Bernardone; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mario's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 20, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph's Church, 1413 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) or Niagara Hospice House (niagarahospice.org). Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.