Marie-Claude Mico Raebiger

Marie-Claude (Mico) Raebiger July 10, 1941 – February 26, 2026

Mico Raebiger, a beloved mother, wife, friend, educator and longtime resident of Ridgefield, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Born on July 10, 1941, in Brezolles, France, Mico grew up in post-World War II Normandy. She shared a profound bond with her dearly loved father, who instilled in her a fascination for travel. Driven by a desire to see the world, she became a flight attendant for TWA. It was during this adventurous chapter of her life that she met her husband, Otto R. Raebiger, a pilot for TWA. The couple married and settled in Ridgefield, Connecticut, where they raised their two daughters.

A proud dual citizen, world traveler and India enthusiast, Mico spoke French, English, German, and Spanish. She shared her love of language and culture as a French teacher at Ridgefield High School and through private tutoring. To her students, she was far more than a teacher; she was a dedicated, straight-speaking mentor who fostered long-lasting relationships. She developed close, enduring ties with her former colleagues, especially those in the Foreign Language Department, who became close friends.

Mico’s life was defined by her sharp intellect, strong character, frankness, cultural awareness and boundless generosity. A gifted painter, hands-on gardener and upholstery hobbyist, she was an avid reader and a phenomenal cook (despite herself) whose fruit tarts were legendary. She found endless inspiration in classical music and opera.

Mico was a cherished member of St. Elizabeth Seton Church, where she became a "second mother" to the parish priests. She was a softie with a hard shell, and her warmth knew no borders, touching lives deeply in both the United States and France. Living her belief that family runs deeper than blood, Mico was a surrogate mother, grandmother, and fiercely loyal friend to countless individuals, leaving an extraordinary and enduring legacy on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Mico is survived by her devoted husband, Otto R. Raebiger; her loving daughters, Marcelline (Mimiche) Tonsing and her husband Christopher, and Debbie Marty and her husband Arnaud; her four cherished grandchildren, Cole Kochan, Ryan Kochan, Noé Marty, and Tess Marty; and her dear sisters, Christiane Boutisseau and Jocelyne Mengue.

The family wishes to extend their deepest, most special thanks to Mico’s friends and family in both the United States and France for their selfless care, love, and support especially during her final months.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Ridgefield on Thursday, March 19, at 11:00 A.M. There will be no calling hours and interment will take place privately. Kane Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.