It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Yeo of Downers Grove, Illinois. Jack, who served as Executive Vice President of PR and Communication at MERGE, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, kindness, and professional integrity.
His death is a profound loss to his family, colleagues, friends, and the broader communications community. Originally from Flossmoor, Illinois, and a graduate of Homewood-Flossmoor High School, Jack went on to study Business Communication at the University of Kansas.
From the beginning, Jack showed a deep understanding of strategic communication and the human side of business — a blend of intellect and empathy that would define his career and his life.
Jack’s professional journey was distinguished by a series of key leadership roles at some of the most respected public relations and communications firms in the world. Before joining MERGE, Jack was the Senior Vice President and Partner leading the Corporate Practice at FleishmanHillard.
He also served as SVP of Issues and Crisis Management at MSL Group, Director of the Corporate/Financial Practice at Burson-Marsteller, and Senior Account Executive in the Corporate Financial Practice at Hill+Knowlton Strategies.
Throughout his career, Jack was recognized as a trusted voice in corporate communications, crisis management, and public affairs. His strategic insight, calming presence, and tireless work ethic earned him the respect of peers and clients alike.
But beyond the impressive resume, Jack was something even rarer: a leader who led with empathy and humility. He was someone who saw the potential in others and worked to lift them up, both professionally and personally.
Those who knew Jack will remember him not only for his brilliance and professionalism, but also for his warmth and character. He was consistently described as positive, generous, and approachable.
Jack had a natural ability to make people feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether guiding a team through a complex client issue or offering a word of encouragement in passing, he made a difference in people’s lives every single day.
Jack’s colleagues remember him as someone who always led by example. He was not only a mentor but also a role model. His integrity, passion, and ability to connect with others left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside him.
He believed in doing the right thing, in nurturing talent, and in facing challenges with both courage and grace. Jack is survived by his beloved family, who were the center of his world.
Though their grief is immeasurable, they are surrounded by the love and support of the many people whose lives Jack touched. In this unimaginable time, we ask for your prayers and compassion for those mourning the loss of someone so truly special.
As the communications community reflects on Jack’s passing, what remains most vivid is his spirit — the laughter he shared, the wisdom he offered, the leadership he modeled, and the kindness he showed to everyone around him.
He leaves behind not just a professional legacy, but a personal one of friendship, generosity, and light. Details about memorial services will be shared in due course.
In the meantime, those who knew Jack are encouraged to honor his memory by embodying the qualities he exemplified: compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to lifting others up.
Rest in peace, Jack Yeo. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
