A most loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Jeff passed on 6 December 2023 in his home in Rockford, Illinois due to complications from multiple previously undiagnosed brain lesions. His sarcasm (often displayed in t-shirt form), humor, and productivity will live on through his progeny.
A veteran Army engineer turned “no-bull” aircraft energy systems design engineer with an intuitive grasp of functionality, Jeff advanced to an advisory engineer position, informing senior management where they could shove their unrealistic expectations. Engineering was a framework for living his life, not just a career, and Jeff brought the same analytical approach, practicality, and creativity to his home and hobbies.
Despite an early ‘D’ grade in middle school shop class, the first place to find Jeff as an adult was in his woodshop, covered in man-glitter (sawdust). His creations, generally made from urban lumber, melded practical function with exquisite form, where even mistakes found their way into the end product as useful features. He would happily provide (safe) interactive home and shop tours to anyone with a remote interest, including inquisitive toddlers, and the functional beauty of his woodworking will forever remain a tangible reminder of his craftsmanship and care.
Jeff shared his passion and extensive knowledge through occasionally irrepressible Socratic instruction in his many hobbies, including arboriculture, billiards, cycling, SCUBA diving, home-improvement, marksmanship, sailing, tree-climbing, woodturning, woodworking, and welding. He combined many of these skills in a project to create large ornamental balls sparkling with lights that hang high in the oak trees in front of his home, which will continue to light the neighborhood long after he is gone.
Throughout a marriage of 43 years – longer than the answer to life, the universe, and everything – Jeff often declared his family to be his greatest pride and joy. While he enjoyed playtime with his young grandchildren, he looked forward to when they would be old enough to reason and learn from the interactive activities and discussions he most enjoyed, much the same as he had with his own children.
In a world where many seek the approval of others, Jeff lived every day with integrity as his authentic self. He was a self-described content man, proud of his “toe-tag house”, which shone with the attention and energy he gave to it. While less interesting home projects didn’t garner as much attention, the mere mention of hiring them out was met with sudden enthusiasm to see them to completion.
He donated time, bespoke crafts, and more blood than his body could hold to support his community and country. He received love, laughter, friendship, and a cherished kidney. His legacy is evident in his impact on family, friends, and community.
Following his wishes, our family will celebrate Jeff privately. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alive and Kick’n, Doctors Without Borders, or Rockford Promise.
