Jonathan Adams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jonathan David Adams, who left us on August 18, 2024, far too soon at the age of 41. Jon was a beacon of light, a loving son, brother and friend whose light and genuine goodness will forever shine in our hearts.He is survived by his parents Thomas and Rebecca Adams (Illinois) and sister Mande (California) who will miss him dearly. 

He was born August 26,1982 in Highland Park, Illinois. Jon lived a life marked by his boundless enthusiasm for learning, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his passions. He grew up in Deerfield, Illinois. He played soccer, baseball, football and LaCrosse. He jammed on his sax in the school’s jazz band and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. After graduating from Deerfield High School he attended Johnson & Wales University Colorado Campus where he earned his Culinary Degree and worked in the food industry and fine dining restaurants in Denver, Wisconsin and back in his hometown of Chicago as an Executive and Personal Chef. With a love of science and learning, he completed a second degree at Northeastern University in Biology- Chemistry and embarked on a professional career as a Scientist, contributing his skills and leadership to projects advancing the development and quality control of new products within the micro particle sphere of technology. 

Outside of work, Jon is known for his many talents including singing and playing guitar, artistic food presentations, creating recipes, sketching and painting. He had exceptional writing abilities discovered as he added his personal touch to thank you notes and birthday cards. His happy places were in nature and hiking, skiing in his beloved Colorado mountains, relaxing at home, watching a good movie and listening and dancing to his favorite bands, especially Phish. Jon loved animals and was a great Dog Dad to his sweet doggie Sampson. His hobby was collecting gemstones, wire wrapping and creating unique pieces of jewelry. He is a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, enjoyed attending Alumni events and supporting his Universities. He is an avid Star Wars Fan and Collector, loved learning about astronomy and enjoyed star gazing sitting around the fire pit. Jons favorite memories involved traveling, fireworks and holidays. 

Jon was a friend to young and old. He loved his cousins, uncles, aunts and grandparents. Deeply cherished his friendships from all stages of life. With his tender heart, he was first to offer congratulations, help, give advice and look for goodness in everyone he met. He was a gentleman. Jon’s brilliant and beautiful mind enlightened conversations with his vast knowledge of just about everything. His zest for life and special touches brought joy to all who associated with him and made the world more beautiful. 

Jon is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jonathan’s legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humanitarian Fund in Jon’s honor, reflecting his spirit of caring and giving. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides aid to people around the world without regard to cultural or religious affiliation. Key projects are improving health and well-being of families by strengthening the availability of clean water, relieving suffering through the Food Initiative Project and more. 

Memorial Service and Burial will be held on Thurs., September 12th, at 11:00 at Anderson & Sons Funeral Home located at 49 East 100 North in American Fork, Utah and burial at the American Fork Cemetery. A zoom link will be provided for those who aren’t able to attend. 

https://www.youtube.com/live/jIuLByNinDY?si=cia0VV_X7-1hkSNo

A celebration of Jon’s life will be held in Chicago on Friday, September 20th at an open house from 5:00 to 7:00 at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints located at 411 North O'Plaine Road, Gurnee, IL 60031.