Juanita Saul Baird, BHS 1956

Juanita Saul Baird, BHS 1956

Juanita Saul was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on April 11, 1938. She was raised on a farm that began her life long passion for animals and gardening. Her family relocated to Burbank, California when she was a young child. She graduated from Burbank High School in 1956. In 1957 Juanita met Dick Baird at Disneyland. They had their first date at Bob's Big Boy. Dick and Juanita married on March 21, 1958.

Juanita loved being a mother to her five children, Rose Mariee, Roberta, Richard, Robin, and Renee. Juanita enjoyed being a stay at home mom and was very involved with the kids schools, scouting and sports teams throughout the years. Juanita would later work at Cal State Northridge where she and Dick made many wonderful memories supporting the Women's Softball Team.

Juanita's favorite place to visit with her family was the "Happiest Place on Earth" Disneyland and Disney World. Juanita loved fast rides and roller coasters. Her favorite ride was 'Soarin Over California'. Juanita looked forward to spending time at the Hacienda Hotel in Las Vegas in the early years where Lady Luck was often by her side. More recently Juanita visited the Barona Resort and Casino where she loved the beautiful rose gardens and listening to Jonathan play her favorite requests on the piano. Juanita received great joy in spending holidays with her family which included her children's spouses and grandchildren: Tim, Tommy, Nikki, Karin, Derek, Kyle, Travis, Louie, Alfonso, Catalino, Luisalina, Lisa, Juan, and Cristian.

Juanita died peacefully on Wednesday, October 10, 2012. During Juanita's last hours with family and friends we played her favorite music. The following is an excerpt of one of her favorite songs that truly moved her up until the very end… "Near, far, wherever you are I believe the heart does go on. Once more you open the door and you're here in my heart and my heart will go on and on." You will always be in our hearts "Missy B" and we will carry your spirit and love on and on.

A private Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, October 20, 2012. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial contribution in Juanita Baird's name to the Arthritis Foundation Hope Through Heroes by calling 1-800-283-7800. Juanita will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with family and friends.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on October 20, 2012