Kara A. (Sullivan) Wroblewski

Kara A. Sullivan Wroblewski of Worcester, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024 at the age of 57, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born in Worcester to the late Nancy Ross Sullivan and Thomas F. Sullivan. Beloved wife of Wesley Wroblewski and cherished mother of Kate and Emma. Devoted sister to Beth Flynn and her husband Ryan Flynn of Arlington. Caring daughter-in-law to Krystyna Wroblewski and the late Jan Wroblewski. Dear sister-in-law to Christopher and Cindy Wroblewski of North Carolina. Adoring aunt to Matthew, Nicholas, Benjamin, Michael, Caroline, and Daniel. She will be greatly missed by her close relatives Ellen, Edward, Christopher, and countless others. The “mother of all things fun” to Bridget, Mairead, Molly, Jillian, Robert, Owen, Ryan, Liam, Olivia, Julia, Grace, and Jack. Irreplaceable friend to Ann, Sean, Caryn, Liz, Sara, Jill, and her entire work family at Roosevelt. She also leaves behind her loyal companion Josie, who never left her side. 

Kara grew up in Webster Square and attended Gates Lane Elementary School. She was a graduate of the South High class of 1985, voted “Best All Around.” She attended Worcester State University where she earned a degree in Elementary Education. She later went on to receive her Masters in Education in Cambridge. Her career as a teacher for the Worcester Public Schools began in 1991. She started as a music teacher and eventually found her niche in grade three, later becoming an instructional coach. Kara was a born teacher. She impacted the lives of all her students and was a beloved educator, mentor, and advocate for inclusivity and equity. Kara will leave behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and a commitment to ensuring that every child felt seen, heard, and valued. 

Not many people can say that their younger sister attended their first birthday party but that was true for Kara. For most, Irish twins Kara and Beth were a package deal. It made sense that they chose the same profession, raised their families together, were neighbors on Cape Cod, and talked on the phone everyday. Throughout their years together they relied on each other, shared secrets and fears, helped each other through difficult times, and talked each other off the cliff when necessary. More importantly, they laughed together, traveled, loved one another unconditionally, and found humor in their toughest moments. When a sister is also a best friend, it is an irreplaceable bond that cannot be taken away. This is summed up perfectly in our last words to one another, “I love you like butter.”

During her sophomore year of college, at a Del Fuegos concert, Kara met Wesley and the rest is history. Since that day, Kara and her favorite fisherman loved and cared for one another deeply. They married on a beautiful, warm day in February of 1995 and held true to their vows. Known as the best caregiver and chef, Wes doted on Kara. Let’s just say she knew what she was doing when she pretended to enjoy fishing as much as he did during their courtship. His unwavering care and devotion for Kara afforded her the strength, hope, and courage needed to manage these last several years. 

Like her mother Nancy and sister Beth, Kara’s favorite place to be was on the Cape with family and friends. She opened her home and ensured a good time was had by all. Days on Dennis beaches, nights at the tiki bar, and delicious dinners at restaurants we couldn’t afford were always on the agenda. She relished backyard theme parties and performances by the young “Blazer Club”. Always the teacher, she encouraged creativity and play that left the children with memories to last a lifetime.  

In life, her best role was mother to Katie and Emma. She dedicated her life to being the best mom she could be. She loved throwing winter birthday parties for Emma with hand made ornaments, decorating gingerbread houses, and basement disco dance parties. In August, Katie’s summer birthdays consisted of outdoor movies, popcorn machines, and cotton candy after a day at secret beach. When diagnosed with cancer in 2010, her only goal was to watch the girls graduate from high school. Because of her strength and determination, she watched them both graduate from UMass Amherst, begin their careers as teachers, and move into their own homes. She left this world knowing she raised two kind, thoughtful, smart, and very beautiful women. 

On behalf of Kara, we want to thank all of the family and friends that have supported her over the years. Through her battle with cancer, Kara remained hopeful and optimistic. Even during her most difficult times she held onto her sense of humor and chose to never waste a moment. Her team at Dana Farber never gave up on her and allowed her the opportunity to spend special time doing what she loved. To Ian Krop, Daniel Abravanel, Danielle Bowers, Douglas Brandoff, Marco Ferrone and all of the doctors, nurses, radiologists, and palliative care professionals, we are forever grateful. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 1st from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Athy Memorial Home at 111 Lancaster Street, Worcester. Please join our family between 5:00 and 8:00 that evening at The White Room, located at 138 Green Street, Worcester, to celebrate a wonderful life that made a beautiful difference. In lieu of flowers, please take part in an act of kindness in Kara’s memory.