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Andrea Kolbe, of Huntington, died Monday, Dec. 11, one day after her 35th birthday, according to her obituary.
Her death followed a battle with postpartum depression, leaving her husband Chazz and their 3-month-old son to grapple with her immense loss, said a GoFundMe by Heather Umhafer.
Kolbe was known in the community as a co-owner and dance instructor at Art In Motion Dance Center of Melville and Commack, where she spent 14 years.
“Our hearts are broken as we sadly share the passing of our beloved Miss Andrea Kolbe. For the past 14 seasons, she has been an inspiration and role model to our AIM team, students and extended family,” the organization said on Facebook.
“Her laughter was infectious and her smile lit up every room. She dedicated her life to creating art, teaching young dancers and bringing love to all- there are not enough words to describe how much she will be missed.”
News of Kolbe’s death prompted tributes from several parents of her former students, including one from Nicole Sellars, of Huntington.
“You showed two out of three of my children how beautiful life was through dance,” she said. “I don’t know the pain you were in but my heart breaks for the people who knew you and loved you.”
In another post, Kolbe’s sister Kyra Vocci remembered her as “my shining star, my sweet baby sister, and a beautiful, joyful soul.”
Umhafer’s GoFundMe campaign to help the family with memorial and ongoing living expenses has already raised more than $80,000 from 846 donors.
“Both Andrea and Chazz have contributed their talents to Long Island’s dance community and we hope to help Chazz and Harbor in any way possible in the months and years to come,” she said.
Those who wish to donate can do so here.
A celebration of life for Kolbe was held Tuesday, Dec. 19, at the Harbor Club at Prime in Huntington.
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