Mary P. Messerle ’93

Mary P. Messerle, Royersford, PA, died January 24, 2025. She had lived and worked in Vermont for much of her later professional life, including living in New Haven, VT.

Known as Pat, she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and champion of mental health.

Born in Troy, NY, Pat grew up primarily in Latham, NY, where she attended Shaker High School. After careers in dental hygiene and as a caterer, she attended the University of Albany (NY) earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology. After relocating to Vermont, she continued her education, obtaining her master’s degree from Saint Michael’s while beginning her career as a psychologist, where her true passion began. Pat was known for her unwavering dedication to those in need of mental health support, and the kindness and compassion she extended to everyone around her. 

Pat’s career was marked by numerous accomplishments. She found great joy as a neuropsychologist beginning at the Counseling Service of Addison County (VT) before expanding her impact to the Addison County (VT) and South Burlington (VT) School Districts, where her teachings of mindfulness helped countless students unlock their confidence and self-esteem to allow those children to realize their dreams. Pat was highly respected in her field; her contributions were far-reaching, significant and enduring, including as a co-author on the collaboration of the book Mindfulness that school districts today employ so that children can continue to grow their skills and confidence, leaving a lasting impact on those she worked with.

In addition to her professional achievements, Pat was passionate about volunteering, teaching, hiking, skiing, traveling, and cooking/baking. Her grandsons were her greatest joys, and she loved caring for and entertaining them and above all making them laugh. She was selfless and giving, always putting others first.

Beyond her professional and community endeavors, Pat was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved spending time with family and with she and her husband’s lifelong friends of the “Breakfast Club,” often organizing gatherings. 

She is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, Christian (Cris) Messerle, a son, a daughter, a brother and extended family.