Luisa Baars

Luisa Baars, a renowned leader for Rochester-area Latinos and the longtime translator for El Mensajero Católico, died June 7, 2026. She was 89 years old.

Mrs. Baars served as a physical and occupational therapist early in her career, working with Latinos at both the Mary Cariola Center and Ibero-American Action League in Rochester. In addition, she worked for many years in drug and alcohol addiction treatment with The Health Association. She also founded the Physical and Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Puerto Rico, Humacao.

In 1988, Mrs. Baars founded MAS Translation Services along with her late husband, Wim, enhancing translation and interpretation availability for Rochester Latinos. In 1992, she became a Rotarian, and in 2014, she founded the Rochester Latino Rotary Club, a volunteer community effort that aids Latino communities locally and worldwide.

Mrs. Baars served in leadership roles for such organizations as Rotary; Catholic Family Center; Diocese of Rochester Women's Commission; Common Ground Latino Health Coalition; United Way; Irondequoit's St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish; American Occupational Therapy Association; and Occupational Therapy of Examiners in Puerto Rico.

In 2024, Mrs. Baars was named Hispanic Business Person of the Year by the Rochester Hispanic Business Association.

A June 7 Facebook post from the Ibero-American Action League lauded Mrs. Baars as "a true pioneer, advocate, and champion for Rochester's Latino community."

"Luisa dedicated her life to opening doors for others," the post added. "While we deeply mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life of extraordinary service and lasting impact. Her legacy will continue to guide our work and inspire future generations."

Mrs. Baars is survived by her children, José (Chris) Lugo, Elizabeth (Raymond) Erb and Luis (Nora) Baars; grandchildren, Michelle (Katelin), Katelyn and Mary Lugo, Roberto and Anthony Erb, Zoe, Mattheus and Ether Baars; sister, Vicky Martinez; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours for Mrs. Baars will be held June 11, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, 570 Kings Highway South, Irondequoit. Her funeral Mass will take place June 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Church, 401 Rogers Pkwy., Irondequoit. Interment will be at Rochester's Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Rochester Latino Rotary Club at www.latinorotary.com.

- Courier obituary by Mike Latona