Sara Kolata

Sara Kolata

February 01, 1984 - August 14, 2025

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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

26
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
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Memories

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Sara
R
Reniece
Coworker •
I send my condolences to Your family. I recently met Sara at work and such a pleasure to work with, she will be missed greatly.
TP
Tamiyah Porter
Friend •
Sara was the person to take every child in like they were her own. I met Sara when I became friends with Brynn in kindergarten. She treated me like her own daughter, even called me hers sometimes. The way she carried herself with such confidence in life, it was something I could look up too while I grew up around her. Dinners, sleepovers, trips, anything we wanted to do while I was over, she made it happen. I will miss her so much and wish I had more time to live right around the block, just a few quick steps away to say hello. I love you Sara, thinking you always. Thank you for raising some of the coolest people I know.
LB
Lori Bayes
Family •
Brynn and Ryan, know that you both are loved so very much and that your mom will always be a part of your lives, I know she was very proud of you both. If you ever need anything know we are here and just a phone call away. Sara you were such a sweet person and made my girls feel like a part of your family know you will be missed by many and loved by all. Fly high and please give Jenna a hug for us.
NK
Noah Klauer
Friend •
Sara was a great enthusiastic person. I was a really young kid when I met her, started being friends with Brynn and Ryan. They lived across the house for a long time and I never really appreciated the time I had with both Sara and her kids. I feel ashamed that I couldn’t spend more time with her and the others. She was great and kind and loving to all she met. I tried helping her out a bit a few times. I hope you rest well Ms. Kolkata.
KB
Kaylie Bayes
Family •
The first time I met Sara was when her daughter Brynn was a baby. She was my sister in law. You from the very beginning treated me like your own family. You welcomed me and my sister into your life and made us feel loved. Fly high and give Jenna our loves. Your laugh will always be contagious. Love you Sara
DW
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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