Donald Joseph Lambert

In Loving Memory of Donald Joseph "Don" Lambert

February 11, 1977 - September 15, 2025

With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we announce the passing of Donald Joseph Lambert, who entered eternal rest on September 15, 2025, at the age of 48. Throughout his year-long journey with glioblastoma, Don displayed remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering faith. A devoted servant of God, Don lived his life with steadfast devotion to the Lord, quiet strength, and a heart open to all.

Don is survived by his best friend and beloved wife of 23 years, Dr. Amber Lambert; his five children, Xavier, John Paul, Katharine, Bernadette, and Joseph; his mother Rosemary Lambert; and his sisters, Danielle Engstrom (Steve), DeAnn Barr (Roger), and Dawn Lambert; as well as numerous loving uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of international friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his father Dr. Donald Lee Lambert.

Born on February 11, 1977, in Palos Park, Illinois to Dr. Don and Rosemary Lambert, from the moment he was born, the baby boy stood out-not just because he was the only boy among three older sisters, but because he had a curious spark that never seemed to dim. Surrounded by chatter, creativity, and chaos, he learned quickly. By the time he was a toddler, it was clear he was unusually sharp. He was the kind of child who asked big questions. Though younger, he often surprised people with the way he could keep up conversations far beyond his years. Indignant over being called "half a player" by a sister due to his age on family game night, Don memorized the entire box of trivial pursuit cards and was never again deemed "half a player!"

After graduating from high school with wrestling, football, and academic accolades, Don realized his dream of attending Ivy League institutions and building a successful career. Most recently, Don was the Country Director for The Asian Development Bank's (ADB's) Armenia Resident Mission. Previously at ADB he led the Private Sector Development Unit within ADB's Viet Nam Resident Mission, worked on financial sector development in India and Sri Lanka, served as head of the corporate recovery unit, and was a risk management specialist covering ADB's financial institutions portfolio. Employment prior to ADB included with the US Federal Reserve and as a US Army officer. Don holds a master's degree from Harvard University, a bachelor's degree from Princeton University, and was a CFA charter holder.

What he did in his professional life though, is not as significant as the impact he left on others. His colleagues and friends around the world are avidly sharing the magnitude of his impact. Don's journey was one of grace, humility, and purpose. His love for the Lord was the foundation of his life, guiding every step he took and every word he spoke. A lifelong believer, he didn't just speak of his faith-- he lived it, every day, in service, kindness, and love to others.

Don was a man of prayer, principle, and deep compassion. Whether he was volunteering at an orphanage, sharing scripture with friends, or simply lending a listening ear, his presence was a steady reminder of God's goodness. He had the rare gift of making those around him feel seen, valued, and deeply loved-reflecting the love of Christ in all he did.

He was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, and friend. His family was his joy, and he poured his heart into all these roles. Together with his wife, he strove often to set aside special one-on-one time with each of their five children. Each older child enjoyed a post-confirmation pilgrimage with their Dad. As toddlers, he took them singlehandedly on exotic travel adventures, most notably the trip to India with three kids under the age of six! His "Dadventures" were famous week-long hikes to enjoy full immersion in whatever country they were living in. In the words of his eldest son, "You knew you were in for a LONG hike when you got a "Dadventures" t-shirt!" Despite his high-paced life, he always carved out time for a weekly date-night with Amber, even if only an hour away for coffee and conversation. In his laughter, his prayers, and even his quiet moments, Don left an indelible mark on those blessed to know him.

Though his time on earth was far too short, Don's legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Our hearts ache at his absence, but we rejoice in the truth he held so dear: that death is not the end, but a glorious beginning. We take comfort in knowing that Don has been welcomed home by his Heavenly Father, hearing the words he longed for all his life-"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Donald Joseph Lambert's legacy of faith, love, and service will live on through all who knew him. May we carry forward his example, walking in faith, loving without limits, and trusting in the promise of eternal life.

A Catholic mass will be held from 11:00 to12:00 followed by a funeral service celebrating Don's life and faith from12:00 to13:00 on Friday,19 September at the Mekhitarist Monastery, Tamruchi Street 36, Yerevan, Armenia. https://asiandevbank-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/rgasparyan_adb_org/ERnFVvSGPZ9Dh21QiEK8gLwBhdLc0xto5Vs5W82_QvTmBw?e=Xc9Plf

A memorial service to honor his memory and give thanks for a life so beautifully lived, will be held in Orland Park, Illinois on November 8, 2025. Many thanks to Don's ADB Manila family who have donated in his memory to the orphanage for at-risk girls he volunteered at; and sincere appreciation to the ADB Yerevan family who donated on his behalf to the Missionaries of Charity, Yerevan who care for children with disabilities. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fellowship for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at WordOnFire.org/FPIDD, in memory of Don are appreciated.