Sara Deen Mengo, 25, of Kenosha, was called to Heaven on Sunday, September 10th, 2006. Born in Kenosha on August 30, 1981, she was the daughter of Vincent Perez, Sr., and Laurie Kuhn-Cooper. A lifelong resident of Kenosha, she was educated at Prairie Lane Elementary, Lance Jr. High and graduated from Tremper High School. She was presently attending Gateway Technical College to become a surgical technician. On October 18, 2003, she married Phillip John Mengo in Kenosha. She was formerly employed at Kwik Trip, Baxter Healthcare and currently was a bartender for various local establishments. She attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. When Sara entered the room everyone knew of her presence, like a free flying dragonfly. Sara was a Green Bay Packer Fan, loved sports, and was very creative with her arts and crafts. Sara loved to eat and never had to worry about her waist line. Sara loved to bike ride, fly kits and spend special times with her son, Ryan, and step daughter, Bianka. Sara will be sadly missed by her family and friends, who will be forever touched by her heart and soul! Surviving are her husband, Phillip John Mengo of Kenosha; a son, Ryan Anthony Scuffham of Kenosha; a step-daughter, Bianka Mengo of Kenosha; her mother and stepfather, Laurie and David Kuhn-Cooper of Pleasant Prairie; her father and stepmother, Vincent and Betsy Perez, Sr. of Pleasant Prairie; a sister, Gabrielle (Michael) Zapp of Kenosha; a brother, Vincent Perez, Jr. of Kenosha; a half-sister, Ashley Perez of Kenosha; two step-sisters, Crystal (Guillermo) Montijo of Kenosha and Mary Perez of Kenosha; her mother-in-law, Diane Mengo of Pleasant Prairie; two brothers-in-law, Bart (Tarha) Mengo and Danny Mengo, both of Kenosha; two sisters-in-law, Kathy (Robert) Dahl of Somers and Tracy Sambirsky of Pleasant Prairie; her maternal grandparents, Odeen and Fred Prudom of Kenosha; her paternal grandmother, Sarah Perez of Kenosha; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; and a special friend, Branka Vujovic of Kenosha. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 14th, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church at 1:00 pm. Entombment to follow at Good Shepherd Mausoleum. Visitation will be held on Thursday at Church from 10:00 am until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has established a trust fund, for Sara's son, Ryan Scuffham, at TCF Bank Kenosha 8018-22nd Avenue.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Mom
My baby Sara, it has been 4 long months and today as every day and in every thing I do I think about you and am keeping my memories alive. Today I prayed that you would call me; yesterday I saw you on the sleds with Ryan and Mitchel and heard your laughter. I could go on and on - I love you all the way up to the heavens - your one and only MomPS Ry Guy is coming over today; come join us...
Pat (Mason) Sebena
Dearest Laurie, Words can't express the sadness I know you must be feeling. Your daughter was like a ray of sunshine, Beautiful and kind. Her laugh was contagious. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. If there is anything I can do for you Laurie, please let me know.
Jill Spitz
Dear Laurie, Dave and Family,After I left the church yesterday many fond memories of Sara came back to me which I thought I would share with you. I remember how as a very little girl she used be on her bike or walking down our street. She would see me in the yard and ask me if I needed help with something. She helped me dig out some old bushes once until other kids from the area went by and she decided that would be more fun. And as she got older there were Sunday's she would show up to help wash our race car and when she was finished she would leave caked with mud. She told me that some people pay to have a mud pack but she got hers free. But most of all I remember that smile. Sara I will never forget you. Love, Jill
Tom Williams
First of all, I would like to say that I am sorry that i did not find out about what happened until only this evening, when my Goddaughters mom asked me about Sara, then delivered the horrendous news. I have known Sara since the first day of 7th grade at Lance. Since then, I became friends with her, and actually asked her to the 9th grade dance at Lance. Sara and I had an unusual but amazing bond. We were not necessarily in the "same crowd" together, but that really didn't matter I guess. We got along well and could talk about anything, whether it was advice about relationships, going out, etc. It didnt matter. She was a beautiful girl. I will never forget her; I never have. Last spring, I began bartending in town at The Backyard, and on my first night, Sara walked in. I could not believe my eyes. It had been 5 years since I had seen her last, at least (I was off to college in LaCrosse). Rarely had I come back and gone out, so I was estranged from quite a few people. I ran out from behind the bar and hugged her like, well, I hadnt seen her in ages! We caught up, and I saw her in there on a few occasions. We planned on doing lunch, but I broke my phone and lost all my numbers, including hers. Sad to say, I had only seen her once since then. I remember the last day of 9th grade, I went out the day before and bought her a big bag of the green and white mint candies; she had mentioned that they were her favorite, so I surprised her with them. She loved it. I love that smile of hers. If theres anything that I can do, please let me know. Im accessable at this email address. Once again, Im sorry for this horrendous loss.
Jean Sinnen
Dear Laurie,Dave, Gabby,Vince,Ryan,Robbie,Debbie,Cindy <Odean, FredI had the honor to be at the funeral today of Sara , this very lovely young lady.as we all know she was much to young to leave us like this, but God must have needed her more in heaven then we needed here on earth..It will be some time before we will be convinced of that.but in time God will help us heal . And remember we all have beautiful memories of Sara to help us get through this long struggle. let us take the time to not only pray for Sara but also to pray for her son Ryan and Mom, Dad, Sisters and Brothers and step family members also .. It will be hard but Sara would want us all to try to go on. May God be with all of you.. love you Sara. jean
Colleen Markus
Gab, Laurie and all I am totally at a loss of what to say. I just found out about this and it's 11:15am Sept 14th. My heart is grieving and there with all of you. I pray that God will fill each of you with his peace and the promise of eternal life in this terribly sad time. Please know that Frank and I are here for and praying for each of you. Please call on us should you need anything at all. May God bless each of you and may you somehow find comfort in knowing he loves each of us and will never leave nor forsake us no matter the circumstances. We will miss Sara's laugh and remember the fun times that had shared. I pray she is celebrating with our wondrous lord until we all meet in his presence again.
Keith Talley and Jenny Seaberg
You are in our prayers.
Melanie Richards
I'm so sorry for your loss. I wish that I could be there. Please know you are in my prayers and so many loved her. Vince please take care of yourself-I love you. God bless you and your family.
Auntie Debbie
Sara,Words d not come but a work has been started in your name. Your passing will not be an end but will be a beginning to the saving of many lives. I love you Sara. I will miss your spirit. I pray God imparts unto me a portion of your spirit unto me to do the work that will support your Mom and David. Love Auntie Debbie
ANNIE JUMP
TO ALL OF SARA'S FAMILY:I AM AN OLD FRIEND FROM SCHOOL. I AM VERY SADDENED TO HEAR ABOUT HER PASSING. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
Henry&Phyllis Laudenbach
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
William and Leesa Thornton
We are saddened at the loss of Ryan's beautiful mother and our nephew Jeremy's loss of a parenting partner and friend. Our prayers are with Sara's family and friends, as well as Ryan and Jeremy. May God bless and keep you all in his watchful eye. We send our love, Glen and Leesa
Phil and Marissa Huff
Dear Laurie, Dave, Gabbie, and Vince,I am so sorry to hear about the tremendous loss of Sara. I want you to know that I will always have very fond memories of her from when I was younger at your house. I remember running around and into Vince and Sara's room, having dinner above the sound of the cackling bird :), and getting into trouble outside. These are the fun and positive things I will take from my time with your family, especially Sara. Dave and Laurie - I want you to know that I think of you often and care for both of you very much, not just during this difficult time, but always. May God bless both of you and your entire family.
Erica Buttera
Dear Uncle Vince, Sr. and Family There are no words to ease the pain you now have. As parents we pray not to outlive our children. The daughter you loved filled the world with sunshine. Now, she surely lights the heavens with a radiance that will never die. Sara was such a fun and vibrant social butterfly and will be greatly missed! I am truly blessed to have known her. Sometimes it's the little things that help us cope with loss... a photo, a song, a passing memory, a kindness that meant so much. These help sustain us as we wander through new feelings until we find our reserves of hope and strength within. May the thoughts, prayers and compassion of others bring you comfort. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please remember to stay strong for Ryan and rejoice in the memory of Sara. With all our Love and Sympathy, Erica Buttera and Family
Liz Ironside
I am devastated and heartbroken to hear of the loss of Sara. Sara was a very dear friend to me, during the time I spent at Baxter (and afterwards). We had many, many laughs and great times in and outside of work. Sara was a very important person to me during a very difficult time in my life, I honestly don't know what I would have done with out her. Her personality was so uplifting and carefree. She lit up any room she entered. I will miss her dearly. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers, especially dear Ryan. I am honored to have known her and will forever keep her in my heart. I love you Sara!!!
Michelle And Dan
We are sorry to hear of your loss. Sara was a wonderful person. Her smile would always lighten the room and her sense of humor would always put a smile on people's faces. We will miss her. Our prayers go out to the family and friends.
Katie Spitzer
To all Sara's family; I want you to know that I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. I will miss her so much; her bright smile, outgoing personality, and her ability to constantly make me laugh. I can't believe she's gone, but in my heart I know she is in a better place and hopefully that thought will help get through the pain. Love you Sara!!!!
Joe Braido
I am extremely heart-broken to hear about Sara. She was a trusted friend to me during her time at Baxter. I treasured our moments when we laughed togehter. I pray that you are comforted by the Lord in this difficult situation. I wanted to send you an uplifting verse that I found helpful when praying for Sara. Psalm 31:5 "I entrust my spirit into your hands. Rescue me, O LORD, for you are a faithful God." You will continue to to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim Forch
Dear Family of Sara,I had the pleasure of working with Sara at Baxter. She was bright, energetic and a fun person to work with. I am very saddened to hear of her passing, and my heartfelt prayers are with Sara, her little boy, and all of her friends and family.
Jill Spitz
Dear Laurie,Dave,Gabby and Vince,My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always remember Sara with her cute smile as she happily ran down our street. I read this somewhere and thought it might help you. "Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy. Love, Jill
Jaye McGinn
TO EVERYONE THAT WAS BLESSED BY SARA - - - It is going to take a long time to smother the pain, frustration and agony of the loss of such a beautiful, talented and outgoing Angel. I know Sara is at peace and working with the Angels right now on how to get tattoos on her wings. I was so blessed to have her friendship. There was never a dull moment being with Sara. She had a beautiful sense of humor and playfulness that was so unique. I vow to do additional volunteer work in memory of my loving friend, as I do it, it will help me heal & keep her spirit alive within me and slowly help heal the huge hole in my heart. I pray that the Lord gently guide and bless all us during this tragic time! I know Sara wants us to move forward and keep positive! My inner healing process will be a tough & bumpy road, I will gain from this because if I don't I know Sara would smack me upside the head if I didn't! I love you dear friend, I know you are at safe and at peace.
Lissa and Mike Jones
Laurie, Gabby, and Vince Mike and I pray for you during this horrible time. I know Darrell has wrapped his angel wings around Sarah. May she rest in peace and soar high. Love and prayers, Mike and Lissa Jones
Carol Gonzales
To all the family members of Sara: I want you all to know that you are in my prayers during this time of sadness and grieving for the loss of Sara. And although we cannot understand why this had to happen, we can only know that God is in control and we have to believe that He will make some sort of good come out of this tragedy. I am so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Carol Gonzales
Robert Schwabe
Gabrielle and Family,My deepest condolences for your loss. May you take some comfort knowing that you are in my heart and in my prayers during this time of great sorrow. I pray that the love of family and friends will surround, support and comfort you. May God bless us all.Sincerely,Rob Schwabe
Brenda and Dan Friedrichs
Laurie and family, We are so saddened to hear of the loss of Sara. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Ryan. I will miss seeing her smiling face at soccer games and at the beach in the summer. The times ahead are sure to be very difficult. I hope you take comfort in knowing she is at peace. Love, Brenda and Dan Friedrichs
Jody Clouse (Pynaker)
To the family of Sara. I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. I was friends with Sara just after high school. She was a beautiful kind person who made a difference in so many lives. She was able to bring a smile to anyone's face. Sara honestly made me a better and stronger person. She was an understanding friend, a wonderful mother, and inspiration to many. I miss her terribly. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely,Jody Clouse (Pynaker)
Jim & Joyce Kuzik
Laurie, Gabbie and Vince what a shock our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our deepest sympathy's. Sara, what a beautiful women with the same smile you had when you were a little girl. You will always be in our hearts. Uncle Jim & Aunt Joyce
Jessica Lundy (Somers)
Vince - my heart, thoughts & prayers go out to you and your entire family. Please watch over your nephew, be there for your mom & sister. Love, Jesse
Vicki Rivelli
Dear Family of Sara:Please know that those of us who had the pleasure of working with Sara at Baxter are heartbroken to learn of her passing. She was a special person, a good worker and so full of promise. We share your loss and will miss her also. We will keep you and especially Sara's son in our thoughts and prayers.Sincerely,Vicki Rivelli
Jenny Ruffner
Not only was Sara a great neighbor, she was a great friend. We were only able to get to know her for a little over a year, but in that time we got to know what a great and loving person, friend mother and wife she was. She will forever be in our memories and thoughts. Our neighborhood is been too quite without you, Sara. We miss you Sara and hope you are in peace.Love,The Ruffner Family (Tim, Jenny & Junior)
Cindy Suchla (Ingram)
Laurie Gabbi and Vince, I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you, I am also sorry it had to take such a tradgedy to be reconnected. Sara turned into such a beautiful women with the same smile i would never forget. Cindy
Jonnie Woods
I love you my little girl. You have and always will be in my heart!!
Cathy Lewis
Laurie and family,I can only imagine your pain. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Sincerely yours, Cathy Lewis
Roger Echeverria
Dear Gabbi,My deepest sympathy to you and your family. You know you have all my support at this moment.Roger
Jaye McGinn
Dear Sara,Like many of your family and friends, my soul is weary with sorrow & shock. Hopeless and selfish that we will not be lifted by your laughter, playfulness & to enjoy the ray of sunshine when you walked into our lives. I will be praying everyday that your family will find comfort and support with the warm memories that they have locked in their hearts.I will miss you my little angel, you made each day at Baxter a delight & I never laughed so hard at your jokes.I hope you are at peace! I am sending your family a huge hug to help support them during this very difficult time!You will be forever in my thoughts!Love, Jaye McGinn
Kathleen Russ, Dean of Health Occupations - Gateway Technical College
We were deeply saddened to hear of the loss of one our brightest students. Our sympathy and prayers are with you.