Theresa McPolin Vicelja

Theresa Vicelja passed peacefully in 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), Erin (Nate) Brune, Brendan Perez, Michael, Joseph, Anthony, Mary Perez, Allison, Luke, and Stella. She was preceded in death by her daughter Ellen and son-in-law Martin Perez.

Born on August 8, 1932, in Los Angeles to John and Jane McPolin, Theresa attended St. Michael's Elementary School and St. Mary's Academy and earned her teaching credentials from Immaculate Heart College.

In 1954, the Irish lass met the love of her life, Joe Vicelja, at the St. Anthony's Croatian Picnic Dance. They were married on June 21, 1958, and built their life together in the South Bay. Theresa embraced her calling as a devoted wife, loving mother of five, and joyful grandmother. Her home was the heart of her family, always filled with warmth and laughter. She loved with a depth beyond measure and treasured traditions, holidays, and any gathering that brought her adoring family and friends together.

An active parishioner of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church for 61 years, Theresa was a 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. 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.

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 on YouTube @st.margaretmarylomita9223.

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

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