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Marc Jacobson Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marc Jacobson, beloved family man, cherished life partner, dearest friend, respected colleague & caring community member. Marc's extraordinary impact is a living testimony to his kindness, generosity and unwavering dedication to "reaching back to pull people forward."
Born on March 24,1964 in Chicago, Illinois, Marc grew up surrounded by love and laughter, much of which emanated from his Grandma Bernice, mother and sisters, fostering his innate sense of compassion and empathy. Marc graduated from Highland Park High School in 1982 and went on to earn a degree in Finance & Business Administration from DePaul University, where he made lifelong friends and began to lay the foundation for his ambitious endeavors.
Marc's professional journey was marked by an impeccable work ethic, esteemed achievements, and innumerable awards. In 1988, Marc joined Equitable, starting his 35-year career in financial services. His sister, Wendy, joined him in 1989, thus, Marc Jacobson & Associates was created. A leading advisor at Equitable, Prudential, and most recently, Aegis Capital, Marc won numerous Top Performer awards, a testament to his dedication and servant leadership, touching tens of thousands of lives. Marc was also a dynamic motivational speaker. His TEDx Talk, "Four Words that Kill Connection" (https://shorturl.at/In2AM), has reached nearly 3 million views, inspiring and motivating people worldwide.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Marc was deeply involved in his community. Some of his commitments to service included sponsoring the college tuition of an under-resourced student at DePaul University, generously donating to the Warrior Program for Fallen Veterans, and supporting organizations benefiting special needs children and adults, such as NSSRA and Keshet. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) where he touched countless lives. A wise mentor to many, Marc made it his life's mission to enhance the lives of those around him without asking for anything in return. He was a rock to all, always offering creative and selfless ways to support others in reaching their fullest potential.
On June 4th, 2022, Marc's life blossomed even further when he met Dr. Joanna Slusky, who instantly became the love of his life. What started as a simple 'hello' quickly evolved into a four-hour deep conversation, revealing their immediate and magnetic connection. Marc and Joanna became inseparable, prioritizing one another in all aspects of life while taking great care of each other down to the finest of details. Their bond was aspirational to all who knew them-the kind that fairy tales would blush at. Marc often shared that Joanna was 'the best thing that ever happened' to him. They treasured, appreciated, and celebrated each other every single day. Their love was 'pure light,' and it will forever burn brightly into eternity.
Those who knew Marc revered him as a man of high integrity and steadfast character. His passion for mentoring uncovered his uncanny ability to draw the best out of everyone. With his authentic warmth, lively wit, and high emotional intelligence, he had a gifted ability to make all those around him feel heard, understood and appreciated. And thus, Marc's legacy is one of love, kindness, and a profound commitment to making the world a better place. His memory will live on within the hearts of his family, friends, and in all those whose lives he had impacted.
Marc is survived by his adored & treasured life-partner Dr. Joanna Slusky; supportive parents Janet and Arthur (z"l) Jacobson; sister/best friend Wendy Rosen (Michael), sister/cheerleader Jodi Hansen (Norb); fond nephews and nieces, Jack Rosen, Charlie Rosen, Lindsey Hansen and Katie Hansen; children, Ashley and Justin Jacobson, and countless friends, business associates & extended family, who will miss him dearly.
Service Friday, 12noon at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road), Skokie. Interment Zion Gardens, Chicago. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made on behalf of the Jacobson family to North Suburban Special Recreation Association (www.nssra.org). To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com
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Sandy Kutchins
October 11, 2024
Did he do a Ted Talk?
Janet Diggs
October 6, 2024
May your transition to a life of peace my friend!
Mr & Mrs Thomas Keough
September 22, 2024
Our Deepest Sympathy to Marc's loved ones.
May he rest in peace.
How you can show support
Liz Blanding
September 16, 2024
Though I had the privilege of working with Marc only once as a guest on the Get Trauma Informed Podcast, his impact was profound. His wisdom and resilience in the face of adversity were truly inspiring, and I was deeply honored to share his story with our audience. Marc's light will continue to shine through the lives he touched, and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this time. Wellness Coach Liz Blanding
Chetzi Canada
September 12, 2024
What a worldly loss to society with all the craziness around us. I invested with Marc, and at one time, he was a constant in the CB office. I just found out he passed on to greener pastures. He will be missed. I am very sorry to his family and my prayers are for you all to find peace with his passing. In time, you will. In the meantime, please be gentle with yourself.
Pamela Kay Scott
September 12, 2024
His kindness and dedication to helping me.
Always had time for me.
James Wilson
September 11, 2024
Sad news for someone that will be deeply missed. We have been a client for 20 years. It was a pleasure speaking with him every time we met. RIp Marc.
Marybeth Schroeder
September 11, 2024
I am shocked by this news. Marc was my late husband Charlie Vernon's advisor for over 30 years and was instrumental in insuring our family's financial security despite my husband's untimely illness and death. We didn't always agree on everything but we always had robust conversations and respect for each other. My condolences to his family and friends.
Marybeth Schroeder
Jann Avant Tyler
August 25, 2024
Marc was always generous , kind and most often entertaining! I´ll miss the Chris Rock references, love of people and HUGE personality! Prayers for all who loved him and peace in their memories of Marc.
Susan Kozloff
August 22, 2024
I am heartbroken. Marc was everything you´d want in a friend, loving, caring, and sincerely interested in you all of which carried over into his professional life.
How I looked forward every year to my early morning happy birthday call.
At peace. Never forgotten.
darren schwartz
August 19, 2024
I am saddened to hear of Marc's passing and offer my deepest condolences to his family. I was a client of his for 20 years and he was always caring and positive. May his memory be a blessing.
Jean Olsen
August 19, 2024
So very sorry to hear about Marc's passing--he accomplished so much in life and had so much to be proud of. What a shock!
Dennis & Connie Relihan
August 16, 2024
We first met Marc back in the early 90´s when I was associated with Coldwell Banker Corp. Marc was immediately very helpful and skillful in setting up both of our annuity programs. We felt that Marc was more of a friend than a business associate as through the years he was always on top of making sure our investments were always up to date and that we had the "best deal" in the market.
We are still in shock of his early passing, and we will always be grateful to have known Marc.
We sincerely wish his family our deepest condolences and prayers.
Michael Pokryfka
August 15, 2024
I first met Marc in the late 80´s when he set up my retirement program. We talked every year since at least 3-4 times a year. I´m in complete shock.. my sincerest condolences to all his family and friends.
Rick Vetter
August 14, 2024
With deepest sympathy for you and your family. May your special memories be a comfort to you. The love and and memories you shared will remain with you forever. As you remember the love, as you mourn the loss, may you celebrate Marc's life. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Dan Stivers
August 14, 2024
Marc has been a trusted advisor to me (financial and otherwise) for many, many, many years. Thanks for your help, brother, you will be missed
John Meyer
August 13, 2024
Our family has known Mark as our financial advisor and friend for over 30 years. In that time he became a trusted advisor and associate. This is such a tragedy in so many ways. I am so sorry for your loss. He always had a great personality and those birthday calls were the bomb.
David & Georganne Botwinick
August 12, 2024
So Sorry and shocked to hear about the
Loss of Marc. He was truly an inspiration
To all of us!
Trudy Roessner-Toolan
August 12, 2024
My deepest sympathy on Marc's passing
Mark Pierret
August 12, 2024
I have known Marc Jacobson and Wendy Rosen for many, many years. The 7 AM Happy Birthday calls and 7:30 AM meetings spoke to Marc's work ethic. No matter what was happening in his life, he always had a positive attitude which was infectious. All of our worlds are much fuller and richer for having known Marc, and it makes his loss that much more painful. We miss you, Marc.
Ken Tutunjian
August 11, 2024
Ken Tutunjian
August 11, 2024
Ken Tutunjian
August 11, 2024
My heart is broken and sending love to Joanna and his entire family and his extended family at work. We spent Memorial Day weekend together in Vegas these photos were taken after dinner - they will always be a positive memory or a man who made a huge difference in my life. My friend, confidant, Chicago brother I will miss you and its all so hard to process. Sending love especially to Wendy, Charlie and Hunberto.
John Kallergis
August 11, 2024
Love you Buddy!
Cindy Finnerman
August 11, 2024
Marc always professional, friendly, funny and of course dressed to the nines. He always made sure to say hello to me and ask how life was treating me.
Michael Rios
August 11, 2024
We all loved you so much, Marc. I can only imagine you miss us as much as we all miss you right now. I´ll always be your little brother.
Cynthia Herrera
August 10, 2024
I had the privilege of working for Marc a few years back at his office in Northbrook. He was a man of great integrity in everything he did . I am very sorry to hear of his sudden passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Wendy , Michael , and extended family and friends , during this very difficult time. Cynthia Herrera , AKA " C " to Marc
Patti and Greg Skirving
August 10, 2024
Marc has been a part of our family for years. He mentored our son, ensured our financial future and blessed us on our birthdays. We will sincerely miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marc´s loved ones. Patti & Greg Skirving
Lisa Henkel
August 10, 2024
I remember Marc, my cousin, as bold, brash, warm, funny, and LOUD. It has been decades since I've seen him, but I will never forget how simply "happy" I was when I was around him as a kid. He drew people to him like a magnet, such was him charm. He was a special, special guy, and well-loved by all who knew him.
Mary Lynn Canmann Newman
August 10, 2024
I´ve known Marc since grade school. Very sad to hear this news! My deepest condolences to his family!
Sandy Kite
August 10, 2024
My deepest sympathies to the family ` so sorry to hear this.
Sandy Kite
Josephine Biondo
August 9, 2024
My deepest sympathy My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pam Kassner
August 9, 2024
Thinking of you all. May his memory be a blessing. Sending lots of love.
Laura Frey
August 9, 2024
To Marc´s family and loved ones -
I am devastated to hear of Marc´s passing. Marc and I were friendly at Highland Park High School and swam together on the swim team. We reconnected a few years ago, when he was living on Laurel and I passed his home daily. It was so nice connecting and having numerous conversations with him; he always had an enthusiastic smile. I was especially touched at how generous he was - knowing how much I loved the water, he offered for me to stop over and use his wet-bikes any time I wanted. We talked about ways to get and stay healthy, and he shared tips on how to help my son become a successful business man after college. I was always excited when he called for business, as it gave us a chance to catch up. When he moved out of Highland Park, I was happy for him, but was sad we wouldn´t get to see each other often. My heart is truly saddened.
Please accept my deepest and sincere condolences.
May his memory be for a blessing.
Patrick ORourke
August 9, 2024
"Be Brilliant, be brief & be gone." (MJ after meeting reviews)
6 am birthday calls
7 am annual review meetings
Driving to meetings in the prius with a driver so he could make calls.
100 % follow thru
I told Marc I liked Wendy more , he always agreed.
RIP
Wayne Blanchette
August 9, 2024
Mark inspired me, and many others, providing intense support (not help) to develop an Authentic Why, Purpose and Cause for my business, carrying over to Life's principles of interacting and connecting with others. I am very sad and shocked that Mark is no longer here. Mark's influence on me will last forever and I will pass on what I learned to others. I will remember you in my daily prayers. Rest in peace my friend.
David Ashford
August 9, 2024
My first memory is how he was Truly a Man who loved everybody,a was dedicated to exercise and so dedicated to helping people get education and better themselves,,,he motivated me to win a World Masters Track championship,by saying training is like winning so be a winner everyday in all you do ... words that to this day are embedded in my Life , and I will be forever grateful..he didn't see color he was a man of Excellence..
Steve Schaumberger
August 9, 2024
I´ve known Marc since our days at HPHS through our careers in the insurance industry.
So sorry for this heartbreaking loss.
My condolences and thoughts are with the Jacobson family.
Barb Noote
August 9, 2024
I met Marc when I joined Coldwell Banker 15 years ago. I had no idea that as an agent I could invest in my retirement because I had spent my first 10 years as an agent being told "No retirement..you are the business...when you are done it's done blah blah blah." What a breath of fresh air Marc was! The valuable information he shared and the options given were eye-opening. He guided me on the path of IRA's- building wealth- protecting that wealth...he opened up investment opportunities I never knew existed for Agents. His excitement for my future made me excited for my future. I will miss him and his 6am calls on my birthday to be the first one to wish me a happy birthday. Such a loss for all....
Cathy Caron
August 9, 2024
I met Marc thru Prudential. We met for coffee and having never met before he asked how he would know me. I told him I would have a red rose behind one year. Thank goodness it was silk. We hit it off immediately and I will miss not only his financial acumen but his wonderful sense of humor. Rest in peace Marc.
yun park
August 9, 2024
Marc was an incredible listener. You would never know it because he loved sharing stories ...
When my son Andrew passed away, I get a call, of course 5:30 in the morning. Just a "Hi Yun..." and I reply back "Hi..." Silence for about a minute pass. Then I say "Ok. Bye." Thats all we needed. He just knew. You are an incredible friend. Love you.
Matt Dauksza
August 9, 2024
Marc truly lived a life of significance with an unmatched zest while doing it his way. He was one of a kind in almost every facet.
A once in a generation human..... Fly high brother......
Wendy Gleiser
August 8, 2024
My first memory of Marc was when he moved into the house next to ours in Glencoe. I think it was winter of 2019 when our doorbell rang and there was Marc all smiles introducing himself to us as our new nextdoor neighbor. We were so shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. And to Joanna we are so deeply sorry for your loss. We will miss your friendly hello´s and chatting with you and Marc. And our condolence's to Marc´s family.
With sympathy,
Wendy Martin Gleiser & Michael Slotky
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
Aaron Hammer
August 8, 2024
William & Louise Dolen
August 8, 2024
My husband and I met Marc and became familiar with his company only a couple of months ago but we feel like we´ve just lost a friend. Marc made us immediately feel comfortable answering every question we had and volunteered information to help us understand how our investments work. He appeared to be genuine and trustworthy, his TED talk was inspiring. He truly was a person we wished we had spent more time getting to know. We are sorry for your loss.
Hollie Himmelman
August 8, 2024
I´m so fortunate to have know Marc. even for only a few years as a client.
He was the epitome of kindness, warmth, and graciousness. My deepest sympathies to Joanna and Marc´s entire family. May Marc rest in peace. May his memory be a blessing.
Jennifer West Lewis
August 8, 2024
Marc was always uplifting. A light. I am so glad ,even as a client, to have experienced his warmth and caring. His joy was apparent. A loss indeed..
Maureen Burns
August 8, 2024
Marc was always professional, encouraging and never gave up on me, he literally helped turn my financial mess around, he was strategic and always upbeat...this one hits hard. My condolences to Marc´s entire family.
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