Obituary of Kara Lynn Honn Zaritsky

In Loving Memory of Kara Lynn Honn Zaritsky

Kara Lynn Honn Zaritsky was surrounded by her people as she let go and found peace at her home in Denver, Colorado, on Sunday, July 27th, 2025. Kara was born in Charleston, Illinois, on December 19th, 1968, to Jane Foreman (née Baptist) and John Honn.

Kara was preceded in passing by her maternal and paternal grandparents; her father, John; nephews Jacob Ryan Shambo and Aaron Whitehead; her mother-in-law, Besse Zaritsky; and sisters-in-law, Wendy Zaritsky and Binny Zaritsky.

Her memory is cherished by her loving wife, Toba Rochelle Zaritsky, and their daughter, Hannah Jane Zaritsky. She is also survived by her mother, Jane; stepfather Joe Baptist; sister, Kim Shambo (Erik); stepsister Kathleen Baptist Conley; and stepbrother, Brad Baptist (Debbie). Kara was a proud aunt to 6 nephews, 3 nieces, 11 great-nephews, and 2 great-nieces. Kara was affectionately known as “Auntie” to countless others.

Kara graduated from Charleston High School and went on to attend Eastern Illinois University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreation. She later completed her training and education at the Boulder School of Massage Therapy.

Kara’s lifelong passion for healing and wellness shaped her career. She took great pride in working as a business manager and certified massage therapist at Dr. Rabbe Family Dentistry, Integrated TMJ & Sleep Solutions, the oldest family-owned dental practice in Colorado.

Kara was a devoted wife, a supportive mother, a caring family member, and a loyal friend. She was full of warmth, kindness, and generosity. Her infectious smile and big blue eyes would light up any room. Kara found peace and inspiration in the outdoors, where she especially loved tending to her garden – a space that reflected her creativity, patience, and care.

Her motto, “work hard, play hard,” would shine through at her happy place, the casinos. She was known for giving the dealers and bartenders generous tips and ensuring that everyone was having a good time. She was always up for anything, including getting matching Celtic tattoos with her daughter. They found a design that is from their ancestral castle in Scotland.

Kara had a great sense of humor. She’d always get a kick out of people mistaking her for Ellen. Her laugh and the way she’d grab your arm when something really got her going was simply the best.

Kara loved the simple things in life, from cheering on the Broncos to camping under the stars. She greatly enjoyed researching her family lineage and felt very connected to her ancestors. Above all, Kara cherished time spent with family and friends, and her greatest joy came from being surrounded by the people she loved.

May the road rise gently to meet you,

May the breeze carry your spirit with ease,

May the love you gave return tenfold,

And until we meet again—

May your soul dance freely in the light of peace.

*Traditional Irish Blessing

A celebration of Kara’s life will be held at Feldman Mortuary, located at 1673 York St. Denver, CO 80206, on Saturday, August 9th, 2025, at 1:00pm. Livestream will be available on the Feldman Mortuary YouTube channel.

In lieu of flowers Toba kindly requests gift cards to Home Depot or a local nursery to help bring new life to the garden that Kara loved so much. Donations may also be made in Kara’s honor to Humane Colorado (formerly Dumb Friends League), a cause dear to her heart.