Jacob Stephen Lorenz

December 9, 1983, to March 5, 2025

With broken hearts, we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Jacob Stephen Lorenz (41), a 6-year resident of Garfield Ridge, IL, and someone who lived and loved the city of Chicago, having come here first for college, and never leaving. 

Jacob is survived by the love of his life, his wife Kathryn Krzynowek, and his cherished and loved pets Janie, Luc and Roz. 

Jacob was brought into this world in December of 1983, in Portland, OR by his surviving parents, Susan and Andy Lorenz. He is also survived by his dear sister Melanie and her husband Austin Davis, along with their son and Jacob’s precious nephew, Sebastian (Bash). 

The loss of Jacob also leaves a massive hole in the Krzynowek family, John & Sandy, Lauren & Tyler (and their pet Frankie) all considered Jacob and Kat the perfect match for one another. Jacob always brought joy (and a special holiday cocktail) to every family gathering, and those will never be the same.

Jacob’s laugh and sense of humor were ever present, particularly when he and Kat verbally sparred with quips and ongoing jokes. He loved soccer, but knee problems kept him from following that path, and he graduated from Roosevelt University in Chicago, majoring in theater arts.  At any moment, and with the least provocation, Jacob could be convinced to break out into song, showing off his vocal expertise, much to Kat’s pleasure. 

Jacob also loved a spirited debate and would happily spend hours with a glass of his beloved whiskey debating the pros and cons of nearly any topic. 

And even though his trips back to Portland were not as frequent as he would have liked, he deeply loved his family. He always made a concerted effort to call and stay connected, including regular weekly “Yahtzee Zoom Parties” with his Oregon family over the past few years.

Jacob spent much of his adult life working in the entertainment and hospitality sector, most recently in restaurant IT support.

In keeping with Jacob’s wishes, there will be no public service, however, there will be a Celebration of his Life at The Elm in La Grange, IL on Friday, April 4 from 3 pm-7 pm. 

For more information, please call (773) 710-5433.