Laura Kay Colby, 66, of Hawthorne, WI, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Essentia Health – St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth, MN surrounded by family.

Laura was born May 11, 1957, to Gerald and Louise Colby. The youngest of eight girls and one younger baby brother, Laura grew up on the family farm in Poplar, WI. Throughout her life she enjoyed fishing, crocheting, gardening, and spending time with her family – most importantly, her grandchildren. She loved baking breads, and everyone could expect a loaf or two at Christmas time. She also shared a special love and bond with her two grand-furbabies, Brittany and Hurley.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents; son, Shawn Potthier; sisters, Judy Little and Janet Colby; partner, Leon Rhodes; and best friend, Faye (Binnie) Mundle.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandy (Richard) Pfankuch; grandchildren, Desiree McCarroll, Dante McCarroll, Luke Lannon, and Haily Lannon; sisters, Doris (Emery) Jones, Geraldine Karna, Shirley (John) Woodhull, Corrine White, and Mary (Hermann) Horst; brother, Jerry Colby; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024, visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. and service at 11:00 a.m. at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N 19th St., Superior, with a luncheon to follow.