Jeffrey William Lombardo

Jeff William Lombardo, 62, of Lake Forest, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones after courageously living with ALS for over a decade.

Born on September 27, 1962, in Hartford, Connecticut, Jeff discovered an early passion for soccer. He excelled on the field, setting high school scoring records that still stand today. He continued his love for the game at Brown University, where he played all four years and proudly served as team captain his senior year.

After graduating, Jeff began a career in sales at Pepsi, where he dedicated 21 years. After Pepsi, he continued his career in the food service industry, where he brought the same dedication and leadership to others. He left an incredible professional legacy, remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his rare ability to mentor, inspire, and lead. Colleagues often described him as an exceptional leader who challenged them to grow and left an impact that lasted well beyond the workplace.

Jeff had a lifelong love of sports, with the Minnesota Vikings being his favorite. He cheered them on with unwavering loyalty (often through heartbreak) and liked to joke that being a Vikings fan built character, mostly through patience and resilience.

In 2015, Jeff was diagnosed with ALS and given a devastating prognosis. He defied the odds for 10 years, eight of them on a ventilator, living with extraordinary strength while finding joy, meaning, and purpose in the connections he built and the family he loved. His resilience, humor, and spirit touched countless lives.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and their two daughters, Grace and Kelly, of whom he was immensely proud. He is also survived by his brothers John Scott (Hannah) and Michael (Karen), his sister-in-law Martha, and his beloved nieces and nephews: Scott, Sarah, Emily, Eric, Matt, and Charlie. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Ed and Marilyn.

Jeff will be remembered for his profound love of family and friends, his lifelong passion for sports, and his unwavering zest for life. Above all, he took the greatest pride in being a father to Grace and Kelly, whose strength and spirit reflect the very best of him. His legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will live on in the countless lives he touched.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Les Turner ALS Foundation, an organization close to Jeff's heart.