Kevin Theodore Jeras

Kevin Theodore Jeras of Chicago, IL and formerly of Phoenix, AZ, San Francisco, CA and New York, NY left this Earth on August 17, 2020 after a 22-month battle against pancreatic cancer. Kevin was a larger-than-life figure who left a positive impact wherever he went. If his six-foot, five-inch frame wasn’t enough to draw attention, one couldn’t help but notice Kevin as he wore a bacon themed suit to Thanksgiving dinner, walked his children to school in his superhero pajamas, paraded through the airport with a giant light-up Christmas tree hat handing out candy to everyone, and lip-synced “All the Single Ladies'' at his daughter’s preschool dance. As you grew to know him, he continued to surprise you. He was as intelligent as he was fun, holding his MENSA membership with pride. He was always current on the latest technology providing valuable tech-product advice to all who knew him. He was masterful in all he did at work often in a sales or a consultative role. He proudly hadn’t eaten a green vegetable since the age of eleven. He was known to make snow angels spontaneously walking through the streets of snow covered cities. He chased local food trucks on Twitter and Facebook and treated the food truck chef like he was family making his childhood favorites. Whether you knew him well or only saw him wearing a disco-ball-like reflective shirt in a hotel lobby, Kevin was a breath of fresh air for his lack of inhibitions and willingness to be silly and fun at any age and in any setting. Kevin personified the adage that getting older doesn’t mean you have to grow up. Kevin was most known for his ability to connect with people instantly in a way that drew close personal and lasting friendships. Kevin was born in Chicago, Illinois, but spent most of his childhood in Phoenix, Arizona. After graduating from Arizona State University with a degree in finance, Kevin left the desert heat for the cooler climate and culture of San Diego, vowing never to return except to see his family and enjoy a pizza hoagie from Uncle Sam’s. He eventually headed to the east coast to pursue his Masters in Finance from the University of Virginia Darden, leading to a career that moved him to cities around the country. It was in grad school that Kevin developed his love for the music of Dave Matthews. He carried this passion throughout his life and was thrilled his young children became fans. Wherever he went, Kevin immersed himself in the local culture, intrigued by the individual stories that helped create his new surroundings and making friends everywhere he went. He avoided chain restaurants, instead choosing to support the people and independent businesses that defined the local flavor. Kevin treated all of his visitors to these experiences, creating one-of-a-kind tours to make each trip unique. It was in these moments that Kevin’s generosity truly shined as he would go out of his way to provide his family and friends with special memories. He eventually met the love of his life, Christine. They loved each other deeply, madly and unconditionally. Their union led to the role Kevin cherished most: father to Priya (7) and Quinn (5). Kevin’s youthful energy, creativity, and passion can be seen in his children. He took pride in their individuality, kindness, and curiosity, always sharing in their wonder. Kevin was also the cherished son of Vivian (the late Frank). Dear brother to Ken (Denise), Steve, and Mike (Amy). Fond uncle, cousin, and friend to many. His transition reunites him with his father, Frank, with whom he is likely enjoying a glass of bourbon right now. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that a donation be made in honor of Kevin to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at www.pancan.org. Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.