Joan Fay Arico

Joan Fay Arico was born on February 23, 1937 in Seattle, Washington.  She crossed over a flower strewn bridge on November 16, 2025 in Escondido, California.  Joan grew up on Mercer Island, Washington,  She was an artist from a very early age and studied privately with a number of famous artists from the age of eight.  Her talent was encouraged by her mother Fay Landis who had graduated with a Fine Arts degree from Pratt Institute.

She is survived by Elizabeth (Lou) Kreisberg and Mark Arico;  grandchildren Spencer, Miles and Lance Kreisberg; Chad and Austin Arico;  six great grandchildren. Nieces Diane(Jack) Jansen, Celia(BJo)Landis, Penny(Scott)Galloway, nephews Tate(Julie) Landis, Regan(Cheryl)Landis, Joel(Diane) Kendall.

Joan was  preceded in death  by her husband Larry Arico, sister Marie Edwards and brother Robert Landis, grandson Brandon Arico, nephew Charles Yarbrough.

Joan led a fulfilling , happy and creative life and lived it well.  She had a few careers beginning as a stewardess and later working for the City of Hermosa Beach a job she loved very much organizing childrens after school art programs . As an entrepreneur she created two successful gift shops one of which was Car d’ A which she poured her heart and life into.  Later she and Larry purchased the historic Julian Drugstore, where she revamped the soda fountain in the 50’s style and created the Candy Mine with buckets of old still produced penny candies while her husband Larry operated the pharmacy.  

Joan and Larry travelled together and with family and friends cruising the world seas as well travelling the United States.  One of her favorite trips was to the Longest Yard Sales as seen on HGTV.  They spent many hours with friends playing  Password, Canasta and Mexican Train.

Joan was a fine artist all of her life and many people collected her wonderful and whimsical  drawings, paintings, ceramics and sculptures.  Her creativity played a part of her daily life and her garden reflected this.  She surrounded herself with wonderful pieces of art and flowers.

Besides her bottomless love for family and friends, she adored her pets which over the years included an otter, cats and lots of dogs.  She enjoyed her life with the extended Arico family and her own family of birth.  She kept in frequent touch with each and every one.

Joan’s passing has left a huge hole in many hearts. When asked to describe Joan in a couple of words, responses were Pure Kindness, Limitless Love, My Anchor, Forever Friend.  

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.