Andrea was an amazing woman who lit up the room with her smile. She loved teaching and was loved by her students and colleagues. She will be missed dearly. I am praying for her family and friends.

Though she is not here today she is happy! My best wishes to her daughter Ellie and Mr. Wilkolaski!

My favorite memory of Mrs. Wilko is when last year in 5th grade (Nichelaskis) she told us all the different stories about Ellie and going to the Dentist! Her laugh made everyone smile and filled the room with joy! She was an awesome teacher! I and the whole class loved her very much.

My son is a current 8th grader in the Caldwell district and Ms Bardes (as we 1st came to know her) was his kindergarten teacher at Jefferson. I think I can speak for all the mothers in that class that we knew we were in for a special year - Ma Bardes greeted them with her glowing smile every afternoon, as if no other children were as special as this class. So many things still stand out from that year but especially the “Q and U “ wedding where her dad dressed in a suit and came to officiate the ceremony. She had such a passion for life, especially time spent with her parents, and was glowing with love at her engagement to Joey.

Thank you for touching our lives in such a beautiful way, Andrea! Our deepest sympathies to the Bardes and Wilkolaski families.

My favorite memory will always be when Andrea had a jewelry party. She was telling us how kind and wonderful Joey was while she was sick and throwing up.WHat a wonderful husband he would be. She glowed with love for him.

I worked with Andrea at Jefferson School. She was the kind of person who made every day worth it! If you were feeling stressed, annoyed, or anything else, one look at Andrea’s smile would fix it. She always had a perspective that helped people forget their worries and laugh with her!! Lunch time was therapy when Andrea was there. Her laugh was contagious and genuine. I loved seeing her, talking with her, and laughing with her! She was a shooting star, tearing into our atmosphere, brightening our lives, blazing like a fireball, until the end. She will be greatly missed!!! My deepest condolences to her husband, daughter, and family. Lanna Lebet

I was Andrea’s second grade partner and friend at Jefferson School. She had this laugh that when you heard it your face would just smile. She made you feel all happy inside when talking to her. She was a wonderful teacher and all of her students loved her. I will miss her very much but will

Never forget her. Prayers to her parents, husband and daughter. You raised and loved a beautiful woman. Heaven gained an angel!!!

I have nothing but wonderful memories of my friendship with Andrea from our days at St. A’s and Notre Dame. What a beautiful, kind and loving soul. I’ll never forget her infectious laugh and her smile that would light up a room. I’m so very sorry for your loss. May Andrea Rest In Peace. Until we meet again, my friend.

How blessed I was to have Andrea as my inclusion partner for eight weeks at Millstone River. She was near the end of her pregnancy with Ellie, so each day was just full of joy and laughter and anticipation - so excited about becoming a “mom” to her beautiful daughter, Ellie. Her excitement and joy for life was contagious and the students in our class fell in love with their new teacher. She brought positivity and warmth and all the good things fifth graders need. Throughout our time together, I learned to love her like a daughter and will miss her dearly.

Last year my Grandson, Ben, was blessed to have Andrea as his teacher at Village and her spirit touched him deeply. He loved her laughter! She found her way into his heart.

Thank you Andrea- your spirit has touched so many lives and we will cherish you always. To Joey- you were her rock, the love of her life but most of all the “dad” she chose for Ellie. Her arms will hold you, her strength will carry you through your grief, and her love will guide you always.

With love and warm hugs,

Barbara Osburn and the Berman family.

Andrea's 5th grade class from 3 years ago found each other and gathered themselves through texts tonight to mourn her loss. She was a special person, full of a bright light, and they all remembered her with fondness this evening. I am so sorry for her loss and our hearts go out to her family. Keeping you in our thoughts, Rose Leonard and former student Tom

Mrs. Wilko was my daughter Amanda’s 4th grade teacher. She was my daughter’s favorite teacher. Amanda loved her very much. A light dimmed too soon. She will be missed. -Latoya Edwards on behalf of Amanda Edwards

I worked with Andrea at Jefferson School and her smile and personality lit up the room. She was always so positive and I can remember her infectious laugh. Thinking of her husband, daughter, and family during this incredibly difficult time.

To the family of Mrs. Wilkolaski: I am so sorry for your loss. "Miss Bardes" was my kindergarten teacher at Jefferson in Caldwell seven years ago. I am so lucky that my first school experience was with her. I remember when her dad came to the classroom. All her student loved her. Rest easy.

There are so many broken hearts belonging to teachers who worked with Andrea. She was always happy and kind to everyone and I can still hear her beautiful, contagious laugh. All my love to Joey, Ellie, and Andrea’s parents as you heal from this incredibly painful loss.

Andrea had such a bright and beautiful smile. I got to know her while at Notre Dame HS and remember her being outgoing, beautiful, extremely friendly and positive.. her bright personality left an impression on me for sure. I'm very saddened to hear this news and hope all her close friends and family dwell on the gift of the good times she was able to help create.

I worked with Andrea at Village School. I will always remember her laughter and smile. She always made our meetings lighthearted and fun. God bless her and her family. We will never forget her and I am positive every student she has taught will hold fond memories of her too.

-Kelley Coyne

Andrea brought nothing but love and laughter to our entire family. Her smile was infectious and would brighten up any room that she entered. Wendy and I are grateful for all the wonderful times and moments that we were able to share together. You will be sorely missed by everyone and nothing will ever be the same again. Knowing that you're shining down upon us all with my sister brings me comfort. Your legacy is forever cemented through your beautiful daughter Ellie and she will now shine your light. For the past year, you were a warrior. The battle that you had to endure is indescribable. You fought with bravery, courage, humility and grace. Rest easy now cousin and enjoy your wings. Your memory will never be forgotten. Love Shaun, Wendy, Adriana, Drake and Liam.

Love Andrea—her smile and laugh are the most memorable. We wish for the family that they can have some solace in knowing that Andrea is now at peace. Al and Debby Bossio

I am so sorry for the loss of Andrea. I did not know her long or well, but, the few times I spoke with her was so pleasant. Andrea always had a smile and engaged in conversation. She will be missed and remembered forever in our hearts. May she RIP