Mary Catherine Kriebel

Mary Catherine Kriebel, age 71, of Fallston, Maryland, passed away with her family by her side on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Alice Marie (Tyson) Melenchek.

Mary graduated from West Hazleton High School in 1972 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Penn State University. Later, she received a master’s degree from John’s Hopkins University.

Mary married Leon J. Kriebel on August 6, 1977, in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, and they shared 48 years of marriage.

Mary began her 34-year career in the Baltimore County Public School System as an elementary school teacher, followed by a reading resource teacher, and finally as an assistant principal. She taught at Deep Creek Elementary School in Essex, and Carney Elementary School in Parkville before retiring in 2011.

Mary was a faithful member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Fallston. She loved to shop, travel, and was an avid reader. She and her teaching colleagues shared a special bond through their book club. During the summer months, she loved spending time in Ocean City, Maryland with her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Melenchek.

She is survived by her loving husband, Leon J. Kriebel; her sons, Matthew (Erin) Kriebel and Brandon (Amanda) Kriebel; and her cherished grandchildren, Quinn, Cade, Alexandra, Kai, and Olivia Kriebel. She is also survived by her brothers, Peter Melenchek and Anthony Melenchek, and her sisters, Laureen Straw and Susie Kaledas.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mary’s memory to the American Liver Foundation.