The Unionville and greater Bristol community is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Karen L. Vibert, a devoted wife, mother, public servant, and cherished resident who tragically passed away in a car accident on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 63.
Karen’s passing has sent shockwaves through the community she so deeply loved and served. Known for her tireless civic involvement, her unwavering dedication to family, and her compassionate spirit, Karen’s absence will be felt profoundly by all who had the privilege to know her.
A Life Rooted in Family and Service
Born on February 11, 1962, to William J. and Judith L. (Tassinari) Bronson III, Karen was raised in Bristol and graduated with the St. Paul Catholic High School Class of 1980. She went on to build a respected career as an independent court reporter and legal professional, known for her meticulous attention to detail, integrity, and professionalism—qualities that earned her the trust and admiration of law firms throughout Connecticut.
But Karen’s impact extended well beyond her professional life. She was a passionate and tireless volunteer, dedicating herself to numerous youth and civic organizations including the Boy and Girl Scouts, Forestville and Eastern Regional Little Leagues, multiple school PTOs, and the Bristol Democratic Town Committee. Her dedication to these causes helped strengthen the fabric of her community and left a lasting impact on countless lives.
A Champion for Education
One of Karen’s proudest roles was her 12 years of service as a Commissioner on the Bristol Board of Education, where she advocated passionately for students, teachers, and families. Her leadership and collaborative spirit helped guide improvements in the district and made a meaningful difference in the lives of children across Bristol.
The Heart of Her Family
Karen’s greatest joy in life came from her family. She shared 35 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband Marty Vibert, raising two children—Andrew and Milli—with love, devotion, and pride. Known affectionately as “Stella” to those closest to her, she was the heart of every family gathering, famous for her homemade mac and cheese, warm brownies, and her effortless ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved.
She was also a gifted artisan, with a passion for embroidery, quilting, and needlework. Among her most treasured family traditions was sewing a custom Christmas stocking for each new member of the family—a loving tradition passed down from her late mother-in-law and carried on with pride.
Karen cherished time at the family lake house in Holland, Massachusetts, weekend shopping trips with her sister Sue, and long walks with her cherished dogs, Tom and Mona, who remained lovingly by her side.
Cherished and Remembered
Karen is survived by her devoted husband Marty Vibert; her son Andrew Vibert and his wife Lorrane Otoni Dias of Revere, MA; and her daughter Milli Vibert of Unionville. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters Susan Fergusson (Brian) of New Hartford and Catherine Robayo of Torrington; her uncle Robin Tassinari (Anne) of Spencertown, NY; her aunt Nancy Baron of Farmington; and many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Her loyal dogs Tom and Mona will continue to be cherished by the family.
In her later years, Karen found renewed purpose volunteering at LiveWell in Plantsville, CT, where she forged meaningful connections and made a difference in the lives of others. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at LiveWell for embracing Karen with warmth and purpose.
Honoring Karen’s Life
Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at O’Brien Funeral Home, 24 Lincoln Ave., Bristol, CT. A Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Knock (St. Mary Star of the Sea Church), 145 Main Street, Unionville, CT.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Karen’s memory be made to Support Dementia Care | LiveWell at https://livewell.org/donate—a cause close to her heart.
A Lasting Legacy
Karen L. Vibert’s sudden departure is a tremendous loss not only for her family but for the entire community. She will be remembered as a woman of grace, strength, generosity, and love—a true embodiment of public service and personal devotion.
Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched, the causes she championed, and the love she so freely gave.
May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forward her example of compassion, dedication, and joy.
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