Thursday, October 1, 2026
Colette Laico passed away May 2, 2026, just six weeks shy of her 106th birthday. A native of New York City, Colette and her late husband, Frank, moved to Edmonds in 2006. She and Frank immediately fell in love with the town, their view of the Puget Sound, mountains and the ferry, and could often be found walking along the “main drag” and waterfront.
Colette was a devoted mother, grandmother, civic leader and trailblazer, a gifted and noted artist, and a person who brought joy and laughter everywhere she went.
Colette grew up in a big happy family in the Bronx. At age 15, she had to quit high school to help support the family during the Depression. She was awarded an internship with the milliner Lilly Dache, and then at 18 was hired by Germaine Montabut Hat Studio, where she had the opportunity to make hats for Eleanor Roosevelt among other dignitaries. It was while working there that she met her husband, Frank. He was working for World Broadcasting located on the 13th floor, and Colette was on the 5th.
During WWII Frank was stationed at the Pentagon and they lived in Alexandria, VA. There her love of art and craft further blossomed when she had the opportunity to work at the Smithsonian Institute, repairing and restoring antique quilts.
After the war, she and her husband settled in White Plains, NY, to raise their family. Colette became very active in civic and community affairs. She returned to school in her 40s, earning her art degree. It wasn’t long before she was asked to teach children’s art classes, then activities for seniors, then patchwork, quilting and more. She loved it, and her dream of being a teacher finally came to pass.
Years later as a successful handmade paper artist, she was invited by the American Craft Council to represent them at the World Craft Council international papermaking convention in Japan. Those three weeks were the turning point for her as an artist. She garnered many awards during her career, including the Sara Winston Memorial Award bestowed by the National Association of Women Artists. Her art can also be found in many corporate offices.
Colette had a remarkable and amazing life. Her smile was constant and infectious. The world is a little less bright with her passing.
Colette is survived by her children Frank (Joan) Laico; Annette Laico; grandchildren Stephen (Eva Lee) Laico, and Jennifer (Theran) Colwell; and great grandson Kellan. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.
