Karen Vibert Bristol CT Obituary Death: A Community in Mourning

The Unionville and Bristol communities are mourning the unexpected loss of Karen L. Vibert, who passed away on Wednesday, July 30th, 2025, at the age of 63. Surrounded by those who loved her most, Karen’s departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her .

*A Life of Service and Dedication*

Born on February 11th, 1962, to William J. and Judith L. (Tassinari) Bronson, III, Karen was raised in Bristol, Connecticut. A proud graduate of St. Paul Catholic High School, class of 1980, she remained deeply connected to the Bristol area throughout her life, raising her family there and pouring her heart into the community. Karen was a tireless public servant and volunteer, dedicating her time, energy, and leadership to a wide range of organizations .

*A Devoted Mother and Wife*

At the heart of Karen’s life was her devotion to her family. She was a loving and proud mother to Andrew and Milli, whom she raised with her devoted husband Marty Vibert, her partner of 35 years. Known affectionately to many as “Stella,” Karen had a gift for hospitality. Her home was the heart of family gatherings, always filled with laughter, warmth, and the unforgettable smell of her famous mac and cheese and brownies .

*A Creative and Artistic Person*

Karen was a gifted artisan, expressing her creativity through embroidery, quilting, sewing, and needlework. She carried on cherished family traditions, including hand-sewing Christmas stockings for new family members—an act of love passed down by her late mother-in-law. Karen cherished time at the family lake house in Holland, MA, enjoyed shopping adventures with her sister Sue, and delighted in the companionship of her beloved dogs, Tom and Mona .

*A Legacy of Love and Service*

Karen’s most notable public role was her 12 years of service as a Bristol Board of Education Commissioner, where she advocated for students, teachers, and public education with wisdom and compassion. Professionally, Karen built a respected career as an independent court reporter and legal professional, earning the respect of her colleagues and clients alike .

*A Community in Support*

In her later years, Karen found deep fulfillment through her volunteer work at LiveWell in Plantsville, where she was embraced as a valued and loved member of the team. Her family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone at LiveWell for providing Karen with a renewed sense of purpose and joy .

*Celebrating a Life Well-Lived*

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at O’Brien Funeral Home, 24 Lincoln Ave., Bristol. A Memorial Mass will follow on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10 AM at Our Lady of Knock (St. Mary Star of the Sea), 145 Main St, Unionville, CT 06085. Karen L. Vibert will be remembered for her strength, her service, her creativity, and her deep love for family and community. Her light will continue to shine in the many lives she touched .