Karen Lee Kulas

Karen Lee (née Schuh) Kulas, 69, passed unexpectedly into her forever in Heaven on August 8, 2026, in Eagle River, Wisconsin.

Born on April 29, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Karen was the beloved daughter of Wayne Francis Schuh and Catherine "Katie" Jane Cronin Schuh. She lost both parents at a young age, a loss that shaped her strength, resilience, and deep appreciation for family throughout her life.

Karen is survived by her husband, Michael R. Kulas, her siblings Constance (John) Bessa‑Rittler, Kathleen Schuh, Dennis (Diane) Schuh, Frank Dale (Michelle) Schuh, Christine (Brent) Weber, Leonard (Janet) Rogaczewski, Gregory (Patricia) Rogaczewski, Gary (Barbara) Rogaczewski, Eileen (Joe) Gold and Mark (Linda) Rogaczewski. She is also survived by her sisters‑in‑law Karol Kulas and Kristine Kulas, along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, grand‑nieces, grand‑nephews, and a wealth of cherished friends.

Karen graduated from Nathan Hale High School in West Allis, Wisconsin, and Mount Mary College. She dedicated many years to teaching home economics and later served as a librarian within the Milwaukee Public School System, touching countless lives with her patience, creativity, and kindness.

On July 28, 1984, Karen married the love of her life, Michael Rafael Kulas. Together, they traveled extensively—fishing in Canada, exploring Mexico and South America, and enjoying adventures across Europe. Though Milwaukee remained their home base, their happiest days were often spent at their cottage in Three Lakes, Wisconsin.

Karen was an extraordinary cook, known for dishes ranging from Coquille St. Jacques to sauerbraten with red cabbage, lamb chops, and countless other specialties. She and Mike delighted in introducing nieces and nephews to new flavors—kumquats, frog legs, and more—always making food an experience to remember.

After retiring in 2005, Karen poured her creativity into jewelry making. She crafted exquisite pieces from gems and polished stones, selling them at fairs throughout Wisconsin and Florida under her ExclusiveLee Designed brand. She was a familiar and beloved presence at Trimborn Farms.

In recent years, Karen and Michael spent their winters in St. Petersburg, Florida, enjoying warm weather, beaches, and seafood—embracing a life filled with sunshine and simple joys.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents Wayne and Katie Schuh, her stepfather Leonard Rogaczewski, her stepmother Esther Poplawski, and Michael’s parents Ralph and Laura Kulas.

A celebration of Karen’s life and accomplishments will be held at the Bruskiewitz Funeral Home, 5355 W. Forest Home Ave., Milwaukee, WI on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with funeral services led by Rev. William Burkert at 11:30 AM.

We invite you to share your memories and join us for the service as we honor her life.