Teresa Vallo Bergeron

Teresa Vallo Petzar Bergeron was a proud coal miner's daughter born on July 31, 1933, in Kulpmont, PA, to Stephen and Mary Vallo. Teresa passed at the age of 92, on September 28, 2025, in her home in Indialantic, FL. She was predeceased by her husbands: Paul A. Petzar and Claude J. Bergeron and her four brothers: Stephen Takach, Joseph Takach, Andrew Takach and Benjamin Takach. She is survived by her four children: Mary Anne Gay, Joseph (Mary) Petzar, Teresa A. Petzar and Stephen (Lisa) Petzar, stepson, Joseph (Wanda)Bergeron, their two children and two grandchildren, her four grandchildren: Paul J. Petzar, Andrew Petzar, Ryan Petzar and Logan Petzar, five great grandchildren and her niece, Denise Schicatano.

Teresa was a very well-respected woman in her community, known for her dedication to the cause of Alzheimer's Disease and other related dementia disorders. While in Florida, she worked for the Alzheimer's Foundation as a Case Manager. Her responsibilities included facilitating support groups and training volunteers for such, assisting in family counseling and caregiver training, arranging respite care for caregivers, fundraising to include the annual Memory Walk and Barbecue/Car Raffle, coordinating and assisting at health fairs and participating as a guest speaker on topics related to dementia. Teresa was very instrumental in the instituting of the first adult daycare center in the county, Eldergarten, associated with the Alzheimer's Foundation, which later became, and is still known as, Joe's Club, and her husband, Paul, was one of the first attendees.

Teresa was also employed by The Memory Disorder Clinic of Melbourne in The Clinical Studies Program where she administered psychometric testing to clients in Alzheimer's Disease studies for the purpose of research and development.

Throughout her life, Teresa exemplified unwavering empathy and strength. Having cared for both of her husbands during their battles with Alzheimer's Disease, she became a steadfast advocate for caregivers, offering her time, wisdom and heart to support others navigating the same journey. Her personal experience gave her a profound understanding of the emotional toll of caregiving and she dedicated herself to easing that burden of care for others through education, outreach and other quiet and public acts of kindness. In the end, she faced her own diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease with the same grace and courage she had shown in caring for others.

Teresa dedicated countless hours to serving others through her volunteer work at the community organization in Melbourne, Daily Bread, and the lay Catholic ministry, St Vincent De Paul Society, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. With a heart full of empathy and a tireless spirit, she helped to provide food, clothing, furniture and housing solutions to those in need. Her efforts extended beyond material support as she was instrumental in offering financial assistance and hope to the homeless and their struggling families in Brevard County. She was a passionate advocate for those living with dementia and their caregivers. As a volunteer, she led virtual tours designed to help caregivers better understand the daily experiences and challenges faced by individuals with dementia. Through these immersive sessions, she fostered greater compassion and awareness, empowering caregivers to provide more empathetic and informed care. Her kindness touched many lives and her legacy of service will continue to inspire all who knew her.

One of Teresa's many accolades included recognition by the Alzheimer's Foundation for twenty-five years of faithful service as the facilitator for the support group that met at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church on a monthly basis. In recognition of her unwavering generosity and tireless community service, she was honored with the Daily Point of Life Awarded by President George H.W. Bush on March 30, 2025. This prestigious accolade celebrated her profound impact on others, exemplifying a spirit of service that continues to inspire people of all ages. Her dedication to the cause of Alzheimer's Disease, especially through the facilitation of a local support group, stands as a powerful testament to her compassion and commitment to building stronger, more caring communities. Her work has touched countless lives, offering comfort, guidance, and hope to families navigating the challenges of memory loss. President Bush commended her legacy and thanked her for being a radiant beacon of kindness and purpose in the lives of so many in her community.

Support can be extended through contributions to The Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation.