Josephine (Jodie) Marie Bifano Erhardt

Jodie was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Gwendolyn (Johnson) Bifano; her sisters, infant Patricia Bifano and Theresa Germaine; her brother, Bruce Bifano; and her husband, Lyle Erhardt. She met Lyle while he was working on the construction of the Kinzua Dam, and together they shared 21 years of marriage before his passing left her widowed at the young age of 44.

A proud 1961 graduate of Kane Area High School, Jodie treasured her alumni reunions and the friendships she built there. After completing her studies at New Penn Beauty School in Warren, PA, she became a skilled beautician with Levinson Brothers. She later co-founded the Warren Bridal Shop, where she delighted in helping brides prepare for their special day. Jodie’s career path also led her to leadership roles at Lerner NY and JCPenney, where she was admired for her dedication and professionalism. Even in retirement, she continued to share her warmth and hospitality working at the Holiday Inn of Warren and in the winters at the Holiday Inn of Lido Beach, FL and made lifelong friendships along the way.

Jodie was a member of Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church, where her faith was a source of strength and comfort throughout her life.

She was a natural organizer and a true friend. She planned countless girls’ trips, filled with laughter and unforgettable stories, and was proud to found the Warren chapter of the Red Hat Society. As a Nana, she loved her grandchildren beyond words and taking them on trips, especially to Lewes, DE, her favorite place, shopping sprees, sleep overs, having many ice cream cones and so much more.

In her later years, as dementia gradually stole pieces of her memory, Jodie was never without love. Her cousin Carole Harris called her faithfully, and her dear friend Mary Kondak visited often. Her family and the compassionate care staff at the Rouse Suites surrounded her with constant care, devotion, and affection.

Jodie loved her big italian family immensely and looked forward to the annual Bifano reunions to see everyone together. This past July marked the 75th Annual, only the second reunion she ever missed.

Jodie is survived by her children, Chris (Sherry) Erhardt of Honesdale, PA; BJ (Mark) Kulka of Warren, PA; and Stephanie(Stet) (Mark) Haley of Gwynedd Valley, PA; her grandchildren, Casey and Kyle Kulka, and Piper Haley; her brother-in-law Ralph Germaine and nephew Sam Germaine; her sister-in-law Diane Bifano and nephew Bruce Bifano Jr. All of them carry her spirit forward in their hearts.

Family and friends will gather at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church, 11 Russell Street, Warren, PA, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 10:00am to 11:00am, at which time a Funeral Mass will be held at 11am, with Father Mark O’Hearn, Celebrant, officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jodie’s name to Hospice of Warren County, 1 Main Ave., Warren, PA, or to organizations supporting dementia research and caregiver support.

She deserved more in her final chapter, but now she is at peace. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

Those wishing to send online condolences may do so by visiting www.petersonblickfuneralhome.com.