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Darlene Talbott
January 8, 2023
Sara is always in our thoughts. She was the best tennis partner and played the game with great enthusiasm and determination.
January 8, 2021
Miss you dear friend.
Sandy Schroeder
January 14, 2020
Sara was a true friend never to be forgotten. She was so very empathetic and caring and so very much missed.
Molly Kreiss
April 9, 2013
Sara Sue,
Always a beacon of light to all that have known her. I have been blessed to have been born into such a wonderful family, Sara was the sister to my beloved mother who also passed away before her time. My mother chose Sara to be my Godmother knowing what a strong Christian woman and leader she was. My entire life I have continued to be amazed and inspired by her strength, love and determination. Those that have been blessed to have known what a special woman she was remember the warmth we all felt while in her presence. She had a gift, one that made us all feel home just to be with her. I believe that her light shines on through all of us that were graced by her love. Sara Sue, my Godmother, my beacon...fondly remembered and sadly missed.
Jeannie Cissne
April 6, 2013
Sara,
There was never a time I saw you when you weren't energetic and cheerful. I will remember that. I am sorry that I did not know of your death until just very recently. Did you have an Irish wake? I thought of you from time to time after you told me of your illness and will continue to think of you in prayer. I imagine you are in a happy place.
Slan' do foill, as the Irish say!
A fellow Iowan with fond memories of St. Robert's.
March 30, 2013
Sara and my mother. December 2012. Submitted by Xena Gutierrez.
Xena Gutierrez
February 26, 2013
I have many great memories of Sara from knowing her my entire life. The many years of visiting her home to play with the train set and ping pong table, made my childhood days only better. I remember when we would play tennis on hot summer days, or even go for a simple swim togethere . Whether they were Christmas parties in December, or even running simple errands with my dear godmother, Sara was always such an optimistic and generous person. Rest in peace my dearest Godmother. You will always be remembered for the wonderful mother, wife, friend, teacher, and godmother that you were. I love you for your kind, generous, and loving ways. I will miss you so much. Your smile, kindness, and loving personality are memories that will forever be in my heart.
Jennie "Ceszynski" Dentice
February 8, 2013
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Mrs. Brust is her infectious smile. I truly don't think I've ever seen her without one. I also think of how comfortable she made you feel and made you sense she was letting you in on some kind of secret she would only share with a close friend. Being a teacher myself, I would have loved to see her in action in the classroom. I can only imagine the impact that she has made on her students- especially the ones that might have had a difficult time coming out of their shells or hadn't cared for school. She had a way of motivating and energizing everyone she came in contact with. Her legacy lives on in those that she loved.
Diane and Greg Zarse
February 7, 2013
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Sara. We 1st met Sara at ushering at The Next Act. We drove her home that night and later we met again at the Vagabonds. We were graciously invited to a Christmas party at your home, we were the 1st to arrive and gladly helped with the finishing touches. Whenever Sara was around you she oozed with excitement. We are so sorry to have missed her funeral as we are gone Jan -Mar. But please know she is missed by all she ever knew.
Zulay F.C. Oszkay
February 4, 2013
So deeply touched by Sara and so saddened by her passing. She will be dearly missed. Her warm and radiant smile and kindness filled the hearts of those who knew her. She was a loyal friend and though we didnt see too much of each other the last couple yrs due to crazy schedules..I will miss her friendship and warmth. My hearfelt condolence to her husband and sons.
Barbara Mangraviti
February 2, 2013
Dear David, Chris, and John,
May Sara's spirit bring you comfort. While we only met for a brief time, Sara was so kind, generous and welcoming. Wehad such a wonderful and Nick remembered Sara's warmth and her wonderful smile. Sara was a vibrant part of our Wisconsin visit. I feel blessed to have known her, you and your family. God bless you all.
Carol Schroeder
February 1, 2013
My Friend Sara...My heart is with you, David, John and Chris at this time. Sara was truly a bright star in my life as she was to all who knew her. She has a special spot reserved in my heart, and I will forever treasure the many hours we spent together. After meeting Sara on a Vagabond hike several years ago, it wasn't long before we became the closest of friends. Always positive, always smiling, vibrant and forward-looking, Sara never dwelt on her illness and led her life as if tomorrow would always be there. She and I especially enjoyed our weekly walks by the lake and our stops at Alterra for coffee/tea and wonderful conversation. Sara loved to take classes and was especially fond of her Italian and memoir writing classes. I marveled at her will to continue taking them, signing up again and again, even as her illness invaded her life. Not wanting to miss a beat, when she was in the hospital in November, she asked me to take her place in her writing class to gather handouts, take notes and register her
for the next class (Such fun for me!). Sara had developed a bond with the other women in the class and even as her health failed, Sara fully intended to participate in that January class. What resiliency! Sara loved and cared deeply for her family and spoke of them with such joy and grace. She warmly invited me into her family circle and for that I will forever be grateful. My hope is to stay connected to all of you along the paths we tread until we see Sara again.
January 29, 2013
Dave, Chris, and John,
My heart bleeds for you and I have been grieving for you since I heard the news. Actually, I was sitting in Kay Norman's kitchen as I brought her food for her husband's wake. Wayne had just died and she told me about Sara. Couldn't believe it! Sara and I lived together in Milwaukee our first year out of college and we had a ball together. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers!!! Love,
Paula Buckley Roling
Vagabond hikers in front of Sara and David's home on Sunday, Jan. 27, hiking in memory of Sara this day.
Ron Sonntag
January 27, 2013
Sara was such a breath of fresh air in our lives. We met when she started coming to our Vagabond Ski & Social Club hikes. She was always the one after that in our hiking pictures with the big smile. As I wrote to our members when describing her when she died, Sara: always a smile, always a good word. Sara loved the hikes; we'd walk as a group through parks and woods, and everyone could see that she loved nature, loved fresh air, loved people, and loved exercise. When her disease started taking its tolls,Sara pushed past it all to come to the hikes, to be with people, to share her smile. She exuded love, and we all could feel it. Today, Jan. 27, at the suggestion of Gloria Zenger from our Vagabond club, we dedicated our hike to her, and we deviated a little from our route along the lakefront to stop in front of her home, and we posed for Mel Malcolm to take the attached picture. There were 22 of us who hiked this day, but somehow we could feel that there really were 23. And our hearts went out to our great hiking friend, even though we couldn't see her. We needed that one great smile to complete the picture!!! Our love is with her and to you, Dave, John, and Chris.
Mary Ann Maynard
January 27, 2013
Sara and I met more than 20 years ago when we both were remedial reading teachers and have been close friends ever since. We spent many happy hours together eating out, golfing and watching our children grow up. I was fortunate to have visited with her in her final days when she was in excellent spirits and always wanted to hear about how my day had been. I will certainly miss her bright smile and bubbly personality
Pam Maynard
January 26, 2013
Dave, Chris, and John,
My deepest sympathy to your family. As long as I can remember I have been going to your house for visits. Sara always made me feel more then welcome. Always making us wonderful meals and snacks, sharing family pictures, and going out of her way to make me feel like I was part of the family. The last time I saw her was when we went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory to celebrate Chris's birthday. I am so happy I was able to enjoy that dinner with her. These are the memories I will always treasure.
Carol Nelson
January 26, 2013
To Sara's husband, sons & family, my sincerest sympathy in your loss of dearest Sara. I was a fiend of Sara's from McKinley Tennis Club. I am so very fortunate after also having gone through colon cancer treatment for 2 years to still be here so I understand the trauma you have all been through. Sara has so many wonderful tennis friends who will miss her greatly. She was a truly beautiful person that we will all remember fondly.
Again my sympathy on your loss
Carol Nelson
Sister Charlita Foxhoven SSSF
January 26, 2013
Dear David, John and Christopher,
Deep sympathy at this time of Sara's death. I hold you close in prayer and love these days. Sorry I am not able to attend the services, but I am there in spirit.
Mary Alice Walsh
January 24, 2013
Date: January 17, 2013
From: Mary Alice Walsh
Sara was a breath of fresh air when we were classmates at Clarke. Her enthusiasm and confidence insured that she was a viable part of the class of 1968 at Clarke College. To her children and her husband, know that she was treasured in innumerable ways. Sara was unique, as I'm sure you know. I will miss her enthusiasm and child-like acceptance of all people. Sara was a gift to me, and I am sure to all of you. I grieve at your loss, as this loss is heartrending for me too. Please accept my sympathies to all of your family. She was a very special person.
I would like to tell you about an event that occurred in our dorm room... Sara needed to sleep. We were always tired. When she awoke, she wanted to brush her teeth. She didn't care whose toothbrush she used. Just as long as she could brush!! What a sweetheart:) Mary Alice (just like her sister!!) McTigue Walsh, Clarke "68 and a BIG Sara fan...
Elvira Puig Barrera
January 24, 2013
How sad I was to learn of Sara's death. She often visited her sister, Sheila, in San Antonio and I had the pleasure of spending time with her and getting to know her during those visits. Sara was a delightful person and always welcomed me into her circle of friendships.
I offer you my heartfelt condolences. May the beauty of your memories sustain you during this time of sorrow.
Sandy Schroeder
January 24, 2013
Sara was a person I was so proud and privileged to call my friend. We had many fun times together, from hiking, biking, my lame attempt at golf, and bowling. One of my favorite biking trips was when Sara led me to the home my Mom grew up in on the East side. Sara was a person who always had something positive to say to everyone she spoke to.
You could be having the worst day ever and Sara would always find something nice to say to you. I am so happy that Sara came from a family of photo buffs and that I have pictures of us together which I will always cherish. I will truly miss the endearing moments we shared together.
Jane Browne
January 21, 2013
I am so sorry to learn of Sara's passing. I enjoyed many hours on the tennis court with Sara, both in social tennis and as her McKinley State League teammate. It was always nice for me to have Sara present at a party because of her friendliness. My condolences to Dave, John and Chris, Jane Tans Browne
Winter walk at the Milwaukee County Zoo, with Chris.
January 19, 2013
Paula Sobczak
January 18, 2013
I am so honored to have celebrated the life of such an amazing woman. I am in complete awe when I think of Sara's beauty and grace. The first time I met Sara I felt like I had known her my whole life. She had a way of making you feel so special. It was on the night of Chris's Birthday that my dear friend John invited me over for a little family celeration at the Brust House. I think that might have been the first time I met Sara. Her smile left an imprint on my heart and her laugh made me smile over and over again. I can honestly say that I didn't want to leave. I just remember what crazy fun we had that night. We were all sitting on the couch at one point laughing so hard that we were crying. I knew right away that this was a very special place to be. She loved life and she loved celebrating life. She adored her family with all her heart. That was so beautiful to me. Sara's life has inspired me to want to BE more...to want to LIVE more...and most of all want to LOVE more. My heart aches to want to see her again. I still feel like I have so much I want to tell her. Until we meet again, I will see her in everything that is BEAUTIFUL...in everything that is LOVE. Her spirit has without a doubt kindled the fire of love within my heart. Her smile will ALWAYS be with me, and her laugh will ALWAYS make me smile.
I love you Sara,
Paula
Christopher Moews
January 18, 2013
My farewell to Sara. From the time your son John and I became friends you welcomed me into your family. Through the summer days and Christmas parties you shared with me your never-ending joy and love for all. As John and I ventured out to conquer college and the world you let us go and led us through your example and love. When I grew older and began my family you welcomed them into your home as you did to me so many years before. And as you fought cancer to the very end you did so with fearless strength and unequaled grace; never losing hope and always with your wonderful smile. During my life you have been like a mother to me as well as a friend and mentor. Your fine example of what it means to be a true parent has challenged me to be a better husband and father. Thank you Sara for all the priceless gifts and memories you have given me. From your heavenly place, please watch over my family as you will watch over your own. God bless you Sara and goodbye…..until we meet again in the next chapter of life.
Ben & Heather Dueland
January 18, 2013
May God comfort you and guide you through these difficult times. Our hearts and tears are with you.
Aunt Sara is a beautiful woman, full of joy, kind, tender-hearted and a peacemaker. Her life was reflected during her wake, so many wonderful and compassionate people came to say goodbye. She will be sorely missed by me. Sara and Maureen were kindred spirits in a way, to those who knew them. I am so greatful that Heather and I were able to talk with Sara this summer at the reunion. Heather was touched by Sara's kindness.
"Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." Matthew 5:8
Father John Cyr
January 18, 2013
@frjohncyr: @johnbrust It was an honor to concelebrate at the Funeral Mass of your mother. May she rest in peace.
Jennifer Repke Vennewitz
January 17, 2013
Aunt Sara was such a special person. She was always so proud of her family and their accomplishments. Her beautiful spirit will be greatly missed. I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
Nancy Ells
January 17, 2013
I am so very sorry for your loss. Sharing time with Sara at a summer concert in the park was so special. What a sweet and happy person. I was so privilege to have met her. My deepest sympathies to all.
Rick and Laura Grossart
January 16, 2013
Dear Brust and Collins families.
It was such a pleasure to have met Sara on a few occasions while visiting from Chicago. I've known John for going on 9 years and Chris for not much less and I have to say my first impressions of them were of sound character, strong faith, vibrant, outgoing and friendly personality who were true to family and friendships. Well, I have to say that when I met Sara, it was a no-brainer that these traits came from Her and David. Having attended Chris' 30th birthday, Christmas or other parties, Sara was ablaze with hostess duties but ever vigilant to ensure I felt at home and met everyone. I truly appreciate Sara and the rest of the Brust family of opening their home for visits while I was in medical school in Chicago and for the great friendship of her son John. God has surly blessed you with a wonderful mother, wife and daughter and blessed the rest of us with her grace and presence in our lives. Sara certainly lives on in our hearts, memories and maybe, if we let it, her spirit will lift us all up to live better lives. God's speed to healing and peace.
Nancy & Larry Kaump
January 16, 2013
Dave, John and Chris: Sara brightened everyone's life. She was a great tennis player and she adored her family. We will miss her. Nancy & Larry
January 16, 2013
Dear Dave, John and Chris,
we are so sorry about the loss of your beloved wife and dear mother. Since almost 40 years we have known Sara and there are many fond memories of times spent together.She left us all to early and we share your sorrow and grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deep sympathy,
Lutz and Hanne Horney
Mary Jane Farrell
January 15, 2013
To the Brust and Collins family. Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this time . Sara has been part of my life for so many years, starting from elementary school to highschool to college! After college we moved to Milwaukee together. I have so many wonderful memories of Sara and I will always remember what a wonderful person she was. The Collins family and the Sullivan family were such good friends and enjoyed many wonderful times together.. I will miss her!! You will all be in my prayers at this difficult time. Love, Mary Jane Sullivan Farrell. Dayton, Ohio
Theresa Sullivan LaSelle
January 15, 2013
Brust and Collins family: I am sending our deepest sympathies from the Sullivan family (Dubuque,Iowa). The Sullivan's grew up with the Collin's family and for almost every Collins there was a Sullivan to enjoy a friendship. I have great memories of Sara at 101 N. Grandview with that hearty laugh and smiling from ear to ear. What energy! Our prayers are with you all at this time. Theresa Sullivan LaSelle
Jarock Family
January 15, 2013
Mr. Brust, John, and Chris,
It was an absolute pleasure to know Mrs. Brust. We will always remember her kind spirit, her gentle way, and the great love and devotion to her family. Getting to know her during the summer of John's recovery was a blessing for our family. Through this difficult time she so joyfully played with the girls even though she was suffering herself. Her strength and will was amazing. She said it was fun and so different to have girls around and talk about dolls, clothes and princesses. The girls loved how she engaged with them. Mrs. Brust, Thomas and I will toast you with a glass of Chardonnay tonight and add a touch of crushed ice in your honor. God bless you and your dear family.
All our love,
Kirsten, Thomas, Madeline and Amelie
Pat & Ed Calvey
January 15, 2013
Dear Dave, John and Chris: You have our family's sympathy on losing your wonderful Mom. We remember all those track, cross-country and road runs where we saw your family. Your Mom always had that big smile on her face. She was so proud of her boys. All of you are in our prayers.
Marjorie Reiley Maguire
January 15, 2013
The world lost a special person when Sara lost her battle for life. The description of her in this obituary as living her life “with kindness, generosity, and a welcoming spirit,” as well as the beautiful, smiling picture, perfectly capture the Sara I have come to know in a few short years as her neighbor. She always had some food she insisted on sharing from the grill or a compliment to pick up my spirit, no matter how grubby I looked working outside. Sara's zest for life spilled out of her. She endured her illness and the frequent treatments with such grace. And instead of worrying about herself, Sara worried about Dave having to take her to the hospital every day for tests, and about John and Chris having to disrupt their lives because of her. Dave, John, and Chris, you were the reason Sara lived as long as she did and had a happy life right to the end. She will be watching over you with pride as you endure this sadness and live the wonderful lives in the years ahead that she wanted for you.
Dick Dcpka
January 15, 2013
I knew Sara from the Vagabond Hikes. She always had a bright smile and was always welcoming and easy to talk with.
Michael DeAsis
January 14, 2013
So sad to hear of the passing of Mrs. Brust. Though I only had the privilege of meeting her a few times on her visits to San Francisco, I found her to be a gracious and lovely lady. I know she was a tremendous source of strength, wisdom and inspiration to her sons, John and Chris; two upstanding gentlemen that I am proud to call my friends. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. May the peace that comes from the fond memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead. I truly believe that those wonderful souls who brighten our world are sent to us from heaven. So know and trust that Sara Sue Brust is not going away this day. She is just going home.
Dantzman Family
January 14, 2013
Mrs. Brust will be missed, and I offer my heartfelt condolences to her family, and especially her two sons, my friends, John and Chris. I had the pleasure of being a guest at the Brust home on many occassions, and your mother was always gracious and welcoming. She was a dignified mother, whose faith, which was evident in her life, lives on in you, and your family. Our faith teaches us that one day she will greet you again, and welcome you into our Father's house. Know that our prayers are with you, and may God's peace and love be with you and your family.
Carlos & Monica Zela-Koort
January 14, 2013
Dear Dave, John & Chris,
How deeply saddened we were to hear of Sara's passing. We know she put up a good fight for she had a love for life. She has been present in our prayers since we learned of her illness and now we ask that she rest in peace with our heavenly Father. Our deepest condolences. Monica, Carlos, Karl & Andrea Zela-Koort
Gayle Riordan
January 14, 2013
Sara, so lively and such a bundle of energy, endlessly running down tennis balls, it's shocking that she is no longer with us. My sympathy to her family, and to her many friends who are also in disbelief.
Kathy Hoffmann and Hansen Honeys Golf Club
January 14, 2013
I first met Sara two years ago when she joined Hansen Honeys Golf League. Although she only golfed a few times over the past two years, she made an impression on everyone she met. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. She obviously had a zest for life, even during her period of illness. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Joanne Williams
January 14, 2013
How sad to hear of Sara's passing. She and I spent many hours on the tennis court and she could not be broken. She was what we call a "human backboard". She was also always full of smiles and a kind word for everyone.
She will be greatly missed.
Jim Pittelkow
January 14, 2013
Dave and Family:
I did not know Sara very well, but the few times we met I was aware of her graciousness and happiness. She was a good mom and wife; may she rest in peace. Heaven is now a better place.
January 14, 2013
Dear Dave, John, and Chris,
Heaven welcomed a special lady this week. She was always such a kind and generous host. I have many wonderful memories from the Christmas parties and remember how happy she was to give some of her classroom treasures a new home in my classroom on "moving day". My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Steve Sievers
Judy Riedl
January 14, 2013
I smiled when I read Jane Rediske's description of Sara as a 'lob queen'. She was a very competitive tennis player and could outlast any of us on the tennis court. It's ironic and sad that she didn't outlast us in life. She deserved many more years to enjoy tennis, friends, the family she loved, and the sons she adored. My condolences,
Joe Niebler
January 14, 2013
Dear Dave and family,
You have our deepest condolences on Sara's passing. Remember the love and joy and celebrate her life.
Alice and Peter Brusky
January 14, 2013
Dear Dave,
Peter and I are so sad to hear about Sara's passing. She was such a classy and fun loving lady. Hold tight to all those wonderful memories you have of her. We will keep you all in our prayers, especially this week.
Caitlin S.
January 14, 2013
I only knew Sara for a brief period of time, but the memory of her and her loving family will remain with me. My condolances to the family.
Ron Kowalewski
January 13, 2013
She always had a great smile and made a person feel welcome. One of my favorite Vagabonds to talk with on many hikes.
January 13, 2013
Sara and I played singles for many years. She had a wonderful zest for life and loved a good competition. I was so sorry to hear about her illness. She was a special lady.
Sue Schoenfeld Milwaukee
Michele Geraldi
January 13, 2013
I only met Mrs. Brust once, but she left a remarkable and lasting impression on me. Not only was she eloquent, beautiful and classy, but she had obvious strength and character. Her sons are also evidence of her intelligence, compassion, kindness and faith. I truly believe that she is now one of the brightest stars in the heavens, and that her spirit will live on forever.
Lee and Darlene Talbott
January 13, 2013
Our friendship started at Highlander Tennis Club in Brookfield before Sara and Dave moved to Lake Shore Drive. Sara was a determined competitor and a great friend. Although we now live in California, it was good to see Sara when she visited San Francisco. We were also privileged to spend time with her during our trips to Wisconsin. In the face of adversity, her spirit remained undaunted and her attitude optimistic. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Kimberly Weber
January 13, 2013
Words cannot describe the courage and strength of this amazing woman. You will be greatly missed Sara.
Mark Ezell
January 13, 2013
I am sad to hear about Sara's passing. She is a very inspiring person who will live on through her family and friends.
January 13, 2013
Heartfelt condolences to all of Sara's family from Kathy and Tom Arenz.
And a few of Sara's nephews.
January 13, 2013
Evening cookout night w/some of the Collins clan in Dubuque.
January 13, 2013
With Sister Mary
January 13, 2013
Brust family reunion
January 13, 2013
Sara with McKinley Tennis Team
Jane Rediske
January 13, 2013
Will always remember Sara with a genuine smile and hearty compliments. As a McKinley Tennis Club member of many years she was known as a lob queen and steady as a backboard. She welcomed us into their beautiful Lake Drive home to celebrate friendship and team spirit. I was fortunate to be with her one more time this past summer at Amalia's. We will surely miss her.
A happy place.
January 13, 2013
A good day.
January 13, 2013
Classroom time with Mrs. B.
January 13, 2013
Smiles and a strike - high five on Mother's Day
January 13, 2013
Our good shepherd
January 13, 2013
Sara and David
January 13, 2013
With Chris at the family farm
January 13, 2013
As she was good at doing, Mom keeping us smiling
January 13, 2013
More of the early years, with Dad
January 13, 2013
The 1st year teacher - field trip.
January 13, 2013
"Mom" Alice Collins, Sara and her sisters Maureen and Sheila.
January 13, 2013
The Collins kids, before Mary was born
January 13, 2013
Camilla Endres
January 13, 2013
John and I are so deeply saddened by the passing of Sara. We are close friend of son, Chris, whom we love and admire deeply. Her memory will last forever, and the product of her life's work; her two sons; John and Christopher, will be living representatives of what is is to be a good person, with sound values, morals, and integrity in our mixed- -up world. They are living proof of the kind of person she was. She should be so proud to have left the world a better place, for it has them in it. Great job, Sara. Your children do you proud. Cammy and John Endres
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