Marian A. (Palaia) Patro, age 76, of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Norristown on August 4, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Joseph J. and Mary Palaia. Marian was a proud graduate of Bishop Kenrick High School.

Marian’s greatest asset in life was her profound love for children. This passion shone brightly through her professional life, where her most proud career achievement was serving as a special needs aide for the Montgomery and Bucks County Intermediate Unit. Her patience, kindness, and dedication touched countless young lives.

At family gatherings, Marian could invariably be found on the floor, deeply engaged in entertaining the children. She was famous for always having a dollar bill tucked into her hand, ready to bring a smile to a child's face. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and dear life-long friend to many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph J and Mary Palaia; her beloved husband, Henry Patro; and her beloved daughter by marriage, Andrea Patro. Marian's legacy of love lives on through her family.

She is survived by her three children, Edward C. Bullen III, Theresa Marie (Michael) Saxon, and Eric C. (Kathy) Bullen; and her cherished sons by marriage , Eric (Melinda) Patro and Johnathan Patro; her sister, Donna (Kenneth) Cobb; her brothers, Joseph J. (Theresa) Palaia and Dominic (Cindy) Palaia. She is also survived by her 12 cherished grandchildren, 5 adored great-grandchildren, and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Throughout the years, Marian served on her high school reunion committee with her life-long friends and classmates, was a member of the Catholic War Veterans Ladies auxiliary and the women’s group at St. Teresa of Calcutta.

A celebration of life will be held on July 14, 2026 at Moore, Snear and Ruggerio Funeral Home, 224 W Main Street , Trappe, PA. Visitation beginning at 10am with a memorial service at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Dementia Society of America , so that one day individuals and their families never have to suffer the effects of this terrible disease.