Sara Kolata
February 01, 1984 - August 14, 2025
Obituary
Sara Kolata, age 41, passed away unexpectedly on August 14, 2025 at her home in Janesville, Wisconsin. She was born on February 1, 1984 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to parents Robert and Gail (Hartzheim) Kolata.
Sara was a force of nature whose presence could never be ignored. Her laugh was entirely her own – loud, contagious, and unforgettable. Though she never sought the spotlight, she had a way of commanding a room the instant she walked in, leaving everyone around her lighter and brighter just by being there.
She had the rare gift of never meeting a stranger. Wherever she went, she found friends, turning ordinary encounters into lasting connections. With her mischievous smile, quick wit, and openness, Sara drew people in and wove together circles of friendship that will continue to ripple outward even in her absence.
Sara was endlessly selfless, always the first to show up and the last to leave when someone needed a hand. She didn’t just go the extra mile – she went two, often without being asked. Whether it was offering comfort, lending her time, or simply showing up with laughter when it was needed most, she gave of herself freely and without hesitation. Her generosity left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to be touched by her care.
She will be remembered for her unmistakable laugh, her boundless ability to connect with others, and the joy she carried into every space. Her legacy is one of laughter, love, and generosity – a reminder that the simplest acts of kindness can leave the deepest impact. To know Sara was to be lifted by her light, and that light will continue to shine in the lives of all who loved her.
Sara is survived by her son, Ryan Robert Hardy; daughter, Brynn Marie Moore; fiancé, Bill Richardson; mother, Gail Kolata; sister, Amy (Bryan) Pellitteri; nieces and nephew, Olivia, Jaxon, and Eve; and bonus children, Theo, Lili, Kamden, Tyler, and Bradie.
She was preceded in death by her father, Robert John Kolata; daughter, Jenna Lynn Moore; and bonus child, Mason.
A Celebration of the Life of Sara Kolata will take place on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Ryan Funeral Home Legacy Center, 6728 Mader Drive, Madison and will continue on at Schwoeglers, 444 Grand Canyon Drive, Madison.
To view her obituary or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Legacy Center
6728 Mader Drive
608-274-1000
Events
Celebration of Life
Tue Aug 26, 2025 @ 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM CDT
Ryan Funeral Home - Madison West • 6728 Mader Dr, Madison, WI 53719
Photos
Memories
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Darlene Washington
Coworker •
Sara was my coworker. We worked together almost daily over the past couple years. She was amazing at her job, very smart and helpful. Sara was my go-to and always willing to help. I see all the wonderful memories shared by her family and friends just know we feel the same. Sara was kind, funny and full of life. We appreciated everything she did to make us better. She is sadly missed.
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Donna Higgins
Family •
I tried posting a fairly long post but it hasn't come through. I did post a photo of Gail and Sara that I feel embodies who they both are, and why we love them so much. I was given a Frameo for Christmas by Stephen and Lauren. When I asked Gail and Sara for a photo of the both of them, this photo is what they sent to me. I love it and posted it on my Frameo immediately. Sara - you have been a joy to our family and I am so lucky to have been able to be a part of your life. Know that you are loved and we will be missing you every day. Give Jenna thousands of hugs and kisses from us. Love you bunches. Donna
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Donna Higgins
Family •
I'm going to apologize in advance if some people don't like the picture I posted of Gail and Sara (in my defense, Gail told me I could do it!). To me, this picture tells the complete story of Sara and Gail. I was given a Frameo for Christmas by my son and daughter-in-law - Stephen and Lauren. When I asked Sara and Gail to send me a picture of the two of them for that Frameo, this picture is what they sent me. I miss you Sara, but I am so glad that I got to know and love you. Know that you are missed, and please give Jenna thousands of kisses and hugs for all of us down here loving and missing you. Love, Donna.
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Diane Waller
Family •
Sara was my dear sweet niece and my God Child. She was a fun loving free spirit who will be sadly missed and will live forever in our hearts. Love, Aunt Diane
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Brian
Coworker •
I had the pleasure of working with Sara for the last few months. We worked on and off on weekends and she always made it fun. Just last weekend she worked a night shift and left me a note. It read " sorry for the mess, but I cleaned everything I could. P.S. I miss your face." The kitchen was spotless.This was Sara! A diamond in the ruff of the industry! I will miss her face...
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Rita Gulvik
Coworker •
Condolences to your family. Worked with Sara at WEA. So sorry for your loss.