Annette Johnston, 74, of Boise, Idaho, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, after a courageous and grace-filled battle with cancer.

Annette’s vibrant spirit and loving legacy live on in her devoted husband, Patrick Johnston, whom she married in 2010, and her three children, Sarah (David) Larsen, Katie Colwell (Justin Corr), and Neil Colwell (Rose Jager), from her earlier marriage to Neil V. Colwell in 1972.

She was a proud and adoring Nana to her seven cherished grandchildren—Abby, Phillip, Ella, Van, Bruce, Josephine (“Jojo”), and Victor—who brought her endless joy and were the light of her life.

Annette was born on February 5, 1952, to Phil and Josephine Aleto. She is also lovingly remembered by her brothers, Joe Aleto (Patti Carman) and Ben Aleto (Denise), along with many treasured extended family members, nieces, and nephews and deeply loved and appreciated friends.

Growing up in San Diego, Annette held dear the simple joys of childhood—sunny days at the beach, giggling with her grandmother in their shared room, cleverly finding ways to avoid dusting chores, and spending carefree hours playing with her brothers, cousins, and neighborhood friends.

Annette married Neil in 1972, beginning a life of adventure that took them to Japan during his Air Force service. They later welcomed their daughter Sarah and moved to Missouri in 1976. Joyfully, Katie was born in 1979, and the family relocated to Spokane, Washington in 1980, where “Baby Neil” completed their family in 1982.

Annette poured her heart into motherhood. Whether she was creating handmade Halloween costumes, baking your favorite cake or birthday dessert, volunteering in classrooms, participating in PTA and Co-Op, or ensuring every detail of daily life was cared for, she approached it all not as obligation, but as a true expression of love and purpose. This love and purpose often extended to the friends of her children and close girlfriends and their families, prioritizing many summer days filled of going to the lake, playing cards with friends, organizing BBQ's and camping trips.

In 1992, the family settled in Boise, where Annette continued to grow and evolve. As her children pursued their own dreams, she embraced new opportunities—finding fulfillment in her work, cultivating new friendships while maintaining longtime friendships, exploring hobbies, and seeking out live music wherever she could. She traveled to Italy and France with family and visited more than 21 states, always eager to experience something new. The steadfast constant was Annette's desire to turn any house into a home, with her meticulous attention to every detail, any guest was at ease and comfort in the space she created.

Becoming a grandmother in 2006 was one of Annette’s greatest joys. She wholeheartedly embraced her role as “Nana,” delighting in every snuggle, story, and shared moment. Her grandchildren cherished their time with her—filled with games, baking, walks, crafts, movies, and laughter—each visit a day fully lived and deeply loved.

Annette met Pat in 2009, and together they built a life rich in companionship, adventure, and shared joy. They married in 2010 and spent their years traveling, camping, attending flying and quilting retreats, and exploring new places—from the Caribbean to the East Coast, and many trips to Napa to visit family. With Annette, there was always something to look forward to, and she brought that sense of anticipation and joy to everyone around her.

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