Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535749
THE ARTISAN SUMMER 2025 • 55 In Memoriam Laura Lee Grubich (1929–2025) HAIR STYLIST We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Laura Lee Grubich, a beloved hair stylist, mentor, and cherished member of our community since October 1966. Her vibrant spirit, unwavering dedication, and legendary sense of humor left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Born and raised in Traverse City, Michigan, Laura Lee began her remarkable journey in August 1929. At just 16, she worked as a diner waitress before her family relocated to California in the late 1940s. There, she became a telephone operator and later followed her passion for beauty and artistry by attending Laurel Beauty Academy. Her career truly blossomed when she trained under the iconic Bud Westmore and Larry Germain at Universal. Laura Lee went on to build an extraordinary legacy in film and television hair styling. Her impressive film credits include Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Tell Them Willie Boy Is Here, Hellfighters, Slaughterhouse-Five, The Midnight Man, Soggy Bottom U.S.A., The Two Jakes, Change of Habit, Star Trek V, Honey, I Blew Up the Kid, Gumball Rally, Kindergarten Cop, and many more. On the small screen, she worked on celebrated shows such as Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, Dynasty, Falcon Crest, Emergency, Blind Ambition, McCloud, Knots Landing, Dark Shadows, and Midnight Caller, among others. Laura Lee was affectionately known on set as "The Cuss Queen"—not because she swore, but quite the opposite. She kept a cuss jar in the trailer and charged a quarter for every slip of the tongue. By the end of each production, the jar was always full—just in time for Craft Service to throw a well-earned party. A true professional and respected leader, Laura Lee earned multiple Emmy nominations and proudly took home two Emmys for her work on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. She served on the Executive Board and Welfare Committee, earning her Gold Card in 1994. Even after retiring, she returned for a time—her love of the craft simply too strong to stay away for long. In retirement, Laura Lee moved to a vibrant community in Tucson, Arizona, where she enjoyed line dancing, water aerobics, golf, theater, and ceramics. She treasured time spent with her family, especially during the holidays when cooking together became a beloved tradition. One of her fondest memories was working with Mark Harmon on The Dream Merchants—his kindness made a lasting impression, and she never missed an episode of NCIS. Laura Lee is survived by her daughters Robbin (also a proud member of Local 706) and Anna, granddaughter Alexis, sister Lorena Patel, nieces Charlette Senn and Cathy Ball, and nephew John Diaz and Cory Patel. Her legacy of warmth, artistry, and mentorship will live on in every life she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Manuelito (Lito) Portacio (1968–2025) HAIR STYLIST Manuelito "Lito" Portacio was born and raised in San Diego, California. After attending the Vidal Sassoon Academy, he eventually made West Hollywood his home, a place that perfectly matched his vibrant spirit and impeccable style. In 2001, Lito began working at the prestigious Frederic Fekkai Salon on Rodeo Drive, where he built a successful career and formed deep, lasting friendships, including with future Local 706 members Liz Ferguson and Joy Zapata. After 12 wonderful years, he moved to Melrose Place, continuing to share his exceptional talent and generous heart with everyone who crossed his path. In August 2017, Lito joined the Fox Sports team, working with MLB and Fox NFL Sunday. This is where he met his dear friend Lisa Ashley. He quickly became a beloved part of the crew, traveling alongside respected sports analysts such as Alex Rodriguez, Kevin Burkhardt, David Ortiz, Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, and Michael Strahan. His warmth, professionalism, and positive spirit made him a treasured part of every production. His work at Fox Sports also led him to proudly become a member of Local 706. Lito also brought his artistry to Dancing with the Stars, collaborating with talents like Derek Hough. Lito loved contributing to work his magic on talent by doing countless photo shoots and commercials. He had a gift for helping people feel confident and beautiful, always elevating those around him. Outside of work, Lito's greatest joy was his beloved dogs, especially Scruffy, who was known for his perfect manners and often joined Lito on outings around West Hollywood. A regular at Joe's Pizza on Sunset Boulevard, Lito embraced the energy and charm of his neighborhood, always bringing his signature smile and kindness wherever he went. Lito was a beacon of positivity, offering kind words, warm hugs, and a joyful laugh that could light up any room. He carried himself with quiet grace, an impeccable sense of style, and a humor that made everyone feel at ease. No matter the situation, Lito always found the silver lining—and knew that a fresh hair style could make things just a little bit better. Lito is survived by his mother Virginia; stepfather Ramon; sisters Maria and Elvira; brother Rosauro; nieces Vanessa and Sherena; and nephews James and Joseph. He was a devoted great-uncle to Giovani and Roman, sharing with them his love of baseball and often gifting them with autographed balls. His family is endlessly proud of the incredible person he was. Lito's beautiful light will be deeply missed. Every visit to Joe's Pizza will now carry a bit of his spirit, and we'll raise a slice in his memory—with love, laughter, and gratitude for having known him.