Sara G. Gulbrandsen (née Shaw), age 91, passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after a life defined by love, creativity, and quiet strength. She was born on August 8, 1934.
Sara met the love of her life, Richard M. Gulbrandsen, while they were in high school. Their early friendship grew into a lifelong love, and on May 20, 1955, they were married, beginning a partnership rooted in devotion, respect, and unwavering commitment. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, stability, and deep love for family.
Sara was the heart of her family—steadfast, kind, and endlessly giving. She deeply loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding immense joy in time spent with them. She also had a lifelong passion for art and travel, embracing creativity and adventure with curiosity and appreciation. Above all, her family was her greatest joy, and everything she did was guided by love.
She is survived by her husband of 70 years Richard Gulbrandsen, her two children, Kevin Gulbrandsen (Eddie) and Shawnmarie Siem (Mark); her three grandchildren, Jamie Schifferer, Sara Arnold (Brandon), and Patrick Frayne; and her five great-grandchildren, Madilyn Eggert, Alexis Schifferer, Caiden Schifferer, Noah Arnold, and Wyatt Arnold, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Sara found happiness in life’s simple moments—being surrounded by family, creating art, sharing stories and laughter, and reflecting on her travels. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on through the family she cherished and the beauty she created.
A celebration of Sara’s life will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at WestRidge Community Church, 3300 Encounter Ln, Elgin, IL 60124.
Visitation will take place from 4:00–5:00 PM, with the service beginning promptly at 5:00 PM.
Flowers, Any floral arrangements may be sent directly to WestRidge Community Church and or the family asks that her memory be honored through acts of kindness or creative expression, reflecting the way she lived and loved.
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My beautiful Aunt, now an angel in heaven with her sister (my Mother). They shared their love of art and kindness. I love you Aunt Sally. Carol J.