Karen Abruscato

Daughter of Louis Kurylo and Gladys Bator (formerly Kurylo), Karen brought brightness to the world from the very beginning. With a laugh that could wake up a quiet room and a sharp wit that kept everyone on their toes, she was truly unforgettable.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Samantha Owens and Katrina Rose; her devoted son-in-law David Owens; her daughter-in-law Sabrina Rose, and her former husband, William Abruscato. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Whitney, and her three cherished grand-dogs—Brady, Logan, and Lulu—who she loved and cared for with unmatched devotion, from their morning vitamins to their evening ritual of “nana time.”  She joins her parents in rest, having undoubtedly arrived fashionably late—on what her family lovingly refers to as “Karen Time.”

Karen lived life on her own terms. She found joy in a good glass of red wine, loved to crochet (with wildly varied success, depending on her mood), and could spend hours in the garden with her daughter, planting anything pink- the brighter the better. In true Karen fashion, always checking an item off a list, she got her final tattoo the words “copy that,” a reference to our way of saying “I love you, too.”  Her style was bold, her humor was unmatched, and her love for her children knew no boundaries—fierce, unconditional, and unwavering.

Karen wasn’t one for big declarations or grand ceremonies—she showed her love in more personal ways. She had a true talent for finding the perfect gift, the kind that made you feel seen and known. She loved to shop (sometimes for herself, often for others), always on the hunt for something that sparkled—whether literally or just in spirit.  She loved to be with her friends and family enjoying a good card game, and finding a stubborn plant to try and keep alive.

Karen leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and a thousand little moments that will be remembered forever by those lucky enough to know her. Her family takes comfort in knowing that while she may no longer be here in person, her spirit will forever bloom in the garden, echo in every joke told a little too loudly, and shine through every shade of unapologetically bright pink.

Her absence leaves a silence that her laugh used to fill—but her spirit, humor, and fierce love will echo in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, plant something pink, raise a glass, and tell someone you love them—then laugh too loud at your own joke. Karen would’ve wanted that. 

Donations can be made to a Humane Society or Pet Rescue of your choosing in honor of Karen Abruscato.

A celebration of life will take place on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 11am at C'Mon Inn, 34028 US Route 45, Grayslake, IL. Please wear Pink in honor of Karen.

Arrangements entrusted to Sambrano Funeral & Cremation, Gurnee, IL. You may sign the online guestbook at LauraSambranoFunerals.com; 847-571-7719.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karen Abruscato, please visit our floral store.