Theodore L Belba

Theodore L. Belba, 93 of Worcester passed away and went home to the Lord unexpectedly at home Sunday, August 18^th, 2019.  

Theodore was born in Quinebaug CT, one of four children of Lambi and Meropi (Saro) Belba.  He later resided and was raised in Dudley before moving to Worcester in 1940.  He has lived in Worcester ever since.  In April of 1944, just three months after his 18^th birthday, Theodore enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve his country during World War II.  He was a member of Gen George Patton’s Third Army, taking part of the drive across Europe, notably, taking part in four major campaigns in Germany and France including the “Battle of the Bulge”.  He earned the bronze star for bravery and Purple Heart for wounds suffered in battle.   Upon returning home and discharged from the service, Theodore became a baker with the Table Talk Bakery, where he worked many years in various departments.  He was especially involved in purchasing many of the fresh fruit products used for the pies before retiring.

Theodore is survived by a brother, V. Gerald Belba and a sister, Constance D. Vessio both of Worcester; five nephews, George Belba of Auburn, William Belba and his wife Maria of Shrewsbury, Peter Vessio and his wife Mary of Rutland, Paul Vessio and his wife Fiona of Leicester,  Steven Vessio and his wife Karen of Southbridge; a niece, Vera Marie Credit and her husband James of Westminster, Colorado, and many beloved great and great, great nieces and nephews who he loved spending time with.  Besides his parents, a brother Christy Belba of Auburn and nephew, Craig Belba of Shrewsbury also predeceased him.

Theodore was a devoted Orthodox Christian and a member of St. Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church in Shrewsbury. He loved being a member of the baking crew at church preparing specialty pies and pastries.

He was also a past member, former Treasurer and loan officer for the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers' International Union.  He loved the outdoors, walking, relaxing and especially his annual hunting trip to Maine with his close friends.  Theodore was very interested in history, notably his heritage, the Middle East, Europe, the 20^th century and World War II.  He also enjoyed watching all levels of sports, especially local High School and College and his favorite professional teams. 

Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Sunday, August 25^th from 3 pm to 6 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.   and then again Monday, August 26^th from 9 am to 9:45 am in St Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church, Gold Street Shrewsbury.  His funeral service will be at 10:00 am in the Church.  Fr Nicholas Apostola will conduct his Trisagion service Sunday at 5:00 pm during calling hours in the funeral home.  Burial with Military honors will follow in Hope Cemetery in Worcester.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St Nicholas Romanian Orthodox Church building fund, Gold St Shrewsbury, 01545.  www.mercadantefuneral.com