Maria Dolores “Lita” Gancayco Baum was born in Manila, Philippines, to Santiago Puyal Gancayco and Mercedes Chuidian Gancayco Raquel. She attended St. Scholastica’s College in Manila before immigrating to the United States at the age of 19, bringing with her courage, determination, and deep faith.

Dolores was caring, thoughtful, and hardworking—qualities that shaped both her personal life and her professional path. She built a meaningful career in the technology field, beginning in manufacturing at IBM and later serving as an executive administrative professional at Intel. These were roles she was deeply proud of and that reflected her dedication, attention to detail, and strong work ethic.

At IBM, she met her former husband, and together they welcomed their daughter, Stephanie. Dolores went on to raise Stephanie as a devoted single mother, demonstrating remarkable independence and resilience while doing her best to build a loving home. IBM is also where she met her lifelong best friend, Debbie McKenzie, who later become her daughter's godmother and an unofficial part of the family.

She loved food, music, photography, and travel, finding great pleasure in cooking elaborate meals—especially Filipino, Italian, and French dishes—and gathering around the table with family and friends. She carefully collected recipes from loved ones, cookbooks, and travels, often perfecting them over time. She enjoyed listening to music (especially disco!), going to concerts, dancing, dressing up, entertaining, and experiencing new cultures.

Dolores was generous and giving by nature. She loved volunteering, finding the perfect gifts for others, hosting gatherings and meticulously planning work events. Though she was a private person, those who knew her well understood the depth of her heart. If someone she loved—especially family—needed help, she could always be counted on to do everything in her power to support them. Yet she rarely asked for help herself, preferring to take care of things independently.

When she did open up, Dolores revealed a deeply sensitive, sharp, and thoughtful person, with a playful sense of humor and a mischievous spark.

Later in life, she became a devoted dog lover and proud dog mom to two Shih Tzus: Bella, who passed away in March 2024, and Mia, who remained a constant companion.

Dolores passed away on February 7, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospital, surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Antonio; and her stepbrother Butch. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Stephanie; her cherished dog, Mia; and her loving siblings Santi, Louie, Nona, Danny, Gabby, Gina, and Francis, along with step-siblings Cherry, Cynthia, Cucu, and Alan.

Dolores’ generosity, strength, independence, and deep commitment to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Funeral Mass in her honor was held on February 27, 2026, at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in San Jose, California.

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