Theresa Baia

She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Baia, co-founder of Western Digital Corporation, on November 22, 2000. She will be missed by her daughter Diane Baia Hale (Philip) and sons Anthony Baia, Alan Baia (Peggy), and David Baia (Robin). She was dearly loved by her seven grandchildren: Sophia, Bella, Giovanna, Francesca, Zegna, Lucas, and Talia.

Theresa was born in Gaeta, Italy, to Regina Stamegna Guidi and Guido Guidi. Her father emigrated to Massachusetts in the 1930s to prepare a home for his wife, son Salvatore, and daughter Theresa. However, World War II began and the family was separated for seven years. Theresa, her mother and her brother, lost their home in Italy with all of their belongings. They survived through the support of their family and friends. The family was finally reunited with Guido in the United States in 1947.

Theresa was married to the love of her life, Joseph Baia, on July 11, 1954, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In 1968, Theresa, Joseph and their four children moved to Tustin, California, to support Joseph’s career in the computer technology industry.

Theresa and Joseph’s love of music inspired them to be among the founders of Opera Pacific and the Orange County Performing Arts Center. Their fondness for travel took them around the world, but their love of family kept them rooted in Orange County. Theresa and Joseph were long time parishioners of La Purisima Church in Orange where Theresa was an active member of the Trinity Guild for many years.

A rosary to celebrate Theresa’s life will take place on Monday, August 9, at 6:00 p.m., at Saddleback Chapel Mortuary. Her funeral mass will be on Tuesday, August 10, at 9:45, at La Purisima Catholic Church, 11712 N Hewes St, Orange CA 92869.

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