A beautiful soul and passionate adventurer, Janet Rose Colonnese McKinney (Jan) sailed away from this world on March 8, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on January 15, 1945, to Nicholas and Rose Colonnese, Jan’s vibrant personality and adventurous spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Raised in New Haven, CT, Jan’s journey took her around the globe. From backpacking across Europe to collecting crayon rubbings of family headstones along the Amalfi Coast, she embraced life with a deep curiosity and zest. She attended the University of New Mexico, where she earned a Bachelor of University Studies in Anthropology, Sociology, and Psychology in 1975.

While working as a ski instructor at Sandia Peak Ski Area in New Mexico, Jan met Jeff, the father of her children. Navy life took them to Whidbey Island, where Jan became an extremely successful real estate agent and broker. She was also a Navy relocation specialist, helping many families over the years, and taught real estate classes that helped new agents become established. Jan retired as a managing broker at Coldwell Banker Tara Properties after over 30 well-earned years in the industry. Known for her vibrant personality, Jan built lifelong friendships and connections with her clients, many of whom became dear friends. In retirement, she enjoyed more traveling, often with family and friends.

Jan was deeply involved in the Whidbey Island community, dedicating her time and energy to numerous causes. She was a longtime affiliate of the Oak Harbor chapter of the Navy League, volunteered with the North Whidbey Chamber of Commerce and the Whidbey Marathon, as well as various Navy appreciation events. Jan was always involved in boating from a young age and was a member of the Oak Harbor Yacht Club, active in sailboat racing administration during Race Week – a major sailboat regatta in the PNW. She enjoyed sailing around the San Juan Islands, Canada and Glacier Bay, AK. Jan also served as a docent at Admiralty Head Lighthouse at Fort Casey, where she shared her love of lighthouses and island history.

Jan’s legacy lives on through her son, Travis of Oak Harbor; daughter,Jessica (David); and granddaughter, Hailey. She is also survived by her sister, Lorraine Stachowicz, and her brother, Nicholas Colonese II, as well as nephews Nicholas Colonese III, Stephen, Paul, and Nicholas IV, and nieces Dawn, Diane, Courtney, Dana, Sabrina, and Brianna.

In the final year of her life, after an unexpected illness, Jan peacefully passed away at her home by the sea she loved so much, surrounded by her son and a dear friend.

With a spirit as free as the wind and as strong as the tides, Jan’s passing was like a sailboat in a Whidbey regatta: she sailed in, lived her life fully, and sailed away just as gracefully. Jan will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

The song “Mother” by Sugarland encapsulates her essence, as seen through the eyes of her children. Her legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will continue to shine brightly in their hearts.

SAIL AWAY, MADRE! SAIL AWAY! Ciao for now! Asta pasta!

A celebration of Jan’s life will be held in the spring or summer of 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Admiralty Head Lighthouse at Fort Casey in her name.

Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.