JoAnne Marie Baca

JoAnne Marie Baca passed away on Friday, August 9th at the age of 82. She was an active member of the East Bay community, and touched many lives with her endless energy, warm spirit and nurturing heart.
JoAnne was born in Oakland, California to Michael and Marie Flaherty. She attended Holy Names High School and then graduated from San Francisco State University in 1964, paying for her tuition while working at the Grand Lake Theater. In 1965, JoAnne began her career as a teacher, a role which would continue throughout her entire life. JoAnne married a fellow educator, Gary Baca in 1967, and spent their honeymoon travelling across Europe. Together, they raised four children.
After settling down in Castro Valley, JoAnne became active in her community, dedicating her life to assisting others. Besides working as an teacher for almost 50 years, JoAnne was a member of the DKG society for women educators, involved in the DICE education program, and led multiple GATE and summer school curriculums throughout her career, and with many awards and honors. As a teacher, she formed lifelong bonds with both her coworkers and students.
JoAnne was also a devoted member of the All Saints Parish community, donating her time to the Condolence Committee, as a Eucharistic Minister, and raising money for charities. Over the years she created a legacy that will be remembered by many.
JoAnne is survived by her loving husband Gary, devoted children Sean, Aaron and Nathan, and her three grandchildren Isobel, Aidan and Norma. She is also survived by her two brothers, Bob and Jerry Flaherty. Her generous loving spirit will be missed by all who knew her.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation at 9:30am and funeral mass at 10:30am, both on Wednesday, September 11th at All Saints Church, 22824 2nd Street, Hayward, CA 94541.