May God bless you and your...
Love you Doug. Such a great friend and person.
Brian Saidel
July 27, 2025 | Friend
Photo courtesy of HILDEBRAND - RUSS FUNERAL HOME - Rhinelander
Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Sep 18, 1972 – Jun 1, 2025
Douglas Philip Lambert
September 18, 1972 ~ June 1, 2025
Age ~ 52
Douglas Philip Lambert, 52, passed away on June 1, 2025, surrounded by his wife, Cyndi, their children, Samuel (15) and Lilia (12), and his dear friend Nate in the quiet woods of northern Wisconsin after a nearly three-year battle with cancer.
Doug passed in a way that was unmistakably Doug—peaceful, full of grace, and surrounded by the people and the place he loved most. In the quiet hours at the cabin, there were heartfelt goodbyes, shared laughter, and the comfort of togetherness. True to his spirit, Doug literally left this world with a smile on his face. The following morning, nature offered an unforgettable, breathtaking farewell: trumpeter swans glided into the bay, a loon cried from the water, and an eagle soared close overhead—an awe-inspiring moment Cyndi will never forget.
Doug was born in Flossmoor, Illinois, on September 18, 1972, to Jerry Lambert and Bonnie Jurgens. He grew up with a bright spirit and a big smile, always drawn to life’s adventures. At age 7, that spirit shone through in a theater production where he not only starred as Peter Pan, but effortlessly memorized the lines of the entire cast. He went on to be class president all four years at Homewood-Flossmoor High School, where he also lettered in basketball, golf, and tennis. He continued his education at Ball State University where, as a standout student, he earned his degree in journalism and was a proud member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. Doug then went on to achieve a master’s in communications from DePaul University.
Doug built a thriving career as a business consultant and advisor in Chicago during the 1990s and 2000s. He was known for his keen insight, unshakable calm, and a gift for building authentic relationships.
He also had a deep passion for music, playing and singing in bands in the city and recording an album of his own original songs.
In 2005 he married the love of his life, Cyndi McVicker Lambert. After living in Chicago and San Francisco they settled in Shorewood, Wisconsin where they were raising Sam and Lilia.
Above all, Doug adored his family. He was a deeply loving and devoted husband to Cyndi and a supportive, ever-present father to Sam and Lilia. Together they enjoyed spending time in nature, going on hikes, visiting the family cabin, and bonding with their pets. He took great joy in being a father. He proudly cheered on Sam’s many athletic talents and was constantly amazed by Lilia’s artistic abilities. Doug also shared his love of music by teaching them to play guitar. He was always there to support and inspire his family.
Doug had a rare combination of wisdom, warmth, and wit. He was quick to laugh, endlessly curious, and always willing to lend advice or an ear. Even in his final days, Doug remained focused on others—lifting spirits, offering kindness, and showing deep appreciation and love for those around him.
Doug’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and quiet strength. His life was a gift to so many. His memory will be cherished forever by those fortunate enough to have known and loved him, including his parents Jerry and Connie Lambert, and Bonnie and Bob Jurgens; sister and brother-in-law, Laura and Rob Keivan; nephews, Jack and Joe Keivan; aunt and uncle, Carole and
Larry Parr; uncle, John Lambert; mother-in-law, Barbara McVicker, sister-in-law, Marsha McVicker, and nephew, Max McVicker.
Doug wished for three “Celebrations of Life” along with a tree planted in each city; Chicago, IL (July), Shorewood, WI (September) and in Flossmoor, IL (October) Specific dates and places will be posted here and or on Doug’s GoFundMe campaign.
Friends and Family are warmly invited to attend any and or all of these gatherings to celebrate the Doug we all loved dearly. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Arbor Day Foundation, one of many causes Doug deeply valued, or Doug’s existing GoFundMe campaign. Additional details will be shared through the GoFundMe page and or, here once dates for celebrations have been determined.
https://www.arborday.org/donate
https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-doug-lamberts-battle-against-cancer
Read MoreLove you Doug. Such a great friend and person.
Brian Saidel
July 27, 2025 | Friend
I am so very sorry to hear of Doug's passing. I worked with Doug years ago and enjoyed his charismatic personality. He always had a smile on his face. Wishing you peace and comfort during this very difficult time.
Carolyn Eckert
July 08, 2025 | Aurora, IL | Coworker
Douglas was a gift from the Lord Jesus and was a blessing to raise. He was filled with the love of God and the Fruits of the Spirit which Doug shared throughout his life. When he was asked how he could be so calm during stressful times Doug would share his personal relationship with Jesus.
I love you, my son, and I will see you soon in heaven.
Love mom(Bonnie)
Bonnie Lambert Jurgens
July 06, 2025 | Carefree, AZ | Family
Doug has been one of the most wonderful people in my life. He was so genuinely kind and caring, supportive and authentic. He will absolutely be missed. My heart breaks for all of his family and friends. What a privilege to have the blessing of knowing him.
Luna Delgado
July 01, 2025 | Evanston, IL | Friend
God bless Doug. Devastating news. Fraternity brother at Ball State and he was genuinely one of the nicest, most enjoyable guys I had ever met. Always so gracious with his time especially when it came to giving me lessons as I was learning how to play the guitar. This is heartbreaking news to receive and I will be praying for his family. Rest easy brother.
Aaron Raudenbush
June 25, 2025 | Fort Wayne, IN | Friend
I had the great privilege of working with Doug on various H-F class reunions & events. He loved H-F, his classmates & community. It was certainly my pleasure to have known him. Blessings and deepest sympathy to family, friends & all who knew & loved him. Ann Cherry (H-F alumni director 2011-2023)
Ann Cherry
June 15, 2025 | Chicago, IL | Acquaintance
I remember Doug..he was always friendly and upbeat. I graduated Class of '89. Sorry for the family and friends loss. He is now no longer in pain. Fly high dear soul.
Christine Miller
June 15, 2025 | Friendship, WI | Classmate
Thoughts and prayers to his family
Bridget DAVIS
June 15, 2025 | Tinley Park, IL | Neighbor
MY HEART IS BROKEN! His faith is inspiring.
leslie Africano
June 12, 2025 | Chicago, IL