Nicoletta “Colette, Coletta” Happel, 85, of Port Charlotte, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 26, 2025.

Colette was born on March 21, 1940, in New York, NY, to Vincenzo and Filomena (Pace) Martello. She often spoke of her wonderful childhood growing up in New York, her siblings whom she loved dearly, and her large Italian family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who filled her childhood with laughter and fond memories.

Colette married the love of her life, Arthur “Artie” Happel, on May 4, 1963. They were true soulmates and built a life centered around family, love, and laughter. They had two sons together, Mark and Christopher, who meant the world to them; one daughter-in-law, Lisa, whom they cherished and loved as their own daughter; and three grandchildren, Christopher, Michael, and Victoria, who were the lights of their lives.

In 1993, Colette and Artie moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, to enjoy their retirement in the Sunshine State. They loved to travel, socialize with friends, and, most of all, spend time with their family. Nothing mattered more to Colette than her children and grandchildren, who loved her just as fiercely. Known for her feisty spirit and tough Italian grit, she was equally known for her generous heart, strong faith, and deep love for her family.

Colette is survived by her loving children, Mark and Lisa; her devoted grandchildren, Christopher (Brett), Michael (Katie), and Victoria (Steven); and her siblings, Emanuele (Grace) and Antoinette. She will also be deeply missed by her extended family, nieces, nephews, and close friends, all of whom she loved very much.

Colette was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Arthur Happel; her parents, Vincenzo and Filomena Martello; her son, Christopher; her brother-in-law, Doug Dillon; and many other extremely special family members and friends who greeted her home in Heaven. To our Mom, Grandma, Sister, Aunt, and Friend: we will love and miss you forever. Until we meet again.

A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 10:00 Am at San Pedro Catholic Church located in North Port, Florida.  Inurnment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Port Charlotte at 11:00 Am.  A reception will follow at the family home.

Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family.  Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Port Charlotte