It is with heartfelt love and profound sorrow the family of Theresa Vicelja announces her peacefully passing at her home in Lomita, CA on February 23, 2026, at the age of 93.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Joseph Vicelja, and their children John (Julie) Vicelja, Stephanie Vicelja Perez, Mark (Diane) Vicelja, and Matt (Kristin) Vicelja; and her cherished grandchildren of whom she was very proud: Ellen (Brett) Beebe, Stephen (Samantha) Vicelja, Erin (Nate) Brune, Brendan Perez, Michael Vicelja, Joseph Vicelja, Anthony Vicelja, Mary Perez, Allison Vicelja, Luke Vicelja, and Stella Vicelja. She was preceded in death by her daughter Ellen Vicelja and son-in-law Martin Perez. Her first three great-grandchildren are arriving in the coming months, and their parents will teach them of her unconditional love and wisdom.

Born on August 8, 1932, in Los Angeles to John and Jane McPolin. Theresa grew up with her sister, Ann, and raised chickens in her backyard and was the cherished youngest cousin to her large extended Irish family. At the age of five, she began riding the city bus alone to attend St. Michael's Elementary School. It was there she discovered her passion for learning and her gift of connection. Everyone she met was instantly drawn to her warm spirit, and in true Theresa fashion, acquaintances quickly became lifelong friends. She later graduated from St. Mary's Academy and earned her teaching credential from Immaculate Heart College. Theresa began her professional career as “Miss McPolin,” teaching at 66th Street Elementary School, bringing joy, patience and dedication to her classroom.

In 1954, the Irish lass met the love of her life, Joe Vicelja, at the St. Anthony's Croatian Picnic Dance. When Joe asked if she could dance the polka, she answered "yes," and in that simple moment an ever-enduring love and partnership was formed. They loved to dance, and together they danced through life. They were married on June 21, 1958, and built their life in the South Bay. Theresa embraced her calling as a devoted wife, loving mother of five, and joyful grandmother.

An active parishioner of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church for 61 years; faith was the cornerstone of her life. Theresa was an active member of the Altar Society and Our Lady of the Rosary Guild, and served for over 30 years as parish representative to the Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women and participated for many years in the Stephen Bereavement Ministry. She called bingo to support the school community and volunteered wherever there was a need. In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI conferred upon her the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award - “For Church and Pope” -the highest honor bestowed upon a Catholic layperson, recognizing her extraordinary lifelong service to the Church and community. It was a fitting tribute to a woman whose life was defined by faith, charity, and selfless devotion.

Theresa loved with a depth beyond measure. Her home was always filled with warmth and laughter. She treasured traditions, holidays, and any gathering that brought her adoring family and friends together, including countless nights of Liverpool Rummy. She and Joe traveled the world, often bringing along their friends, children, and grandchildren. They had the chance to visit six continents and enjoyed fifteen memorable cruises, always savoring the beauty of life and the joy of shared experiences. Their many trips with Bishop Joseph Sartoris were among their favorites. For over twenty years, Theresa drove the neighborhood carpool, often with ten or twelve children packed into the family station wagon (long before seatbelt laws existed). She attended countless Little League games parked with daughter, Ellen, near the outfield fence where they would honk the horn for every good play made by the team.

Known for her humility, sincerity, and a rare ability to make everyone around her feel valued, Theresa never sought recognition, yet she earned admiration simply by being herself, a kind, gracious, and endlessly giving soul. Her friendships were true and lasting; her love, boundless. She will be profoundly missed.

Friends and family will gather at St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church in Lomita, CA on Friday, March 20th for a 10:00am Rosary and 10:30am Funeral Mass. Services will be livestreamed at youtube@smmlomita.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Margaret Mary's Christian Service at https://smmlomita.org/online-giving/ (select - "In Memory of Theresa Vicelja/Christian Service").