Downers Grove, IL — The community of Downers Grove and the greater University of Kansas family are mourning the loss of Jack Yeo, a beloved husband, father, and proud KU alumnus, who passed away following a courageous and hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Jack was 56 years old.
Born on February 28, 1969, Jack grew up with a love for life, sports, and most especially, Kansas Jayhawk basketball. A graduate of the University of Kansas, Jack’s passion for his alma mater was legendary among those who knew him. His loyalty to the Jayhawks dated back to his college days in Lawrence, where he watched in awe as “Danny and the Miracles” captured the 1988 NCAA Championship—a memory he often called one of the greatest moments of his life.
In August 2023, Jack’s world changed when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. From the moment of his diagnosis, Jack faced his illness with unwavering courage, faith, and optimism. He endured 12 rounds of intensive chemotherapy, underwent the physically grueling Whipple Procedure, and continued fighting with oral chemo and 28 rounds of radiation. For a time, it appeared Jack had turned a corner in his battle, but in January 2025, his doctors discovered a recurrence.
Still, Jack never lost heart. Even amid new rounds of aggressive treatments, he leaned on the values and relationships that defined his life. He became an active member of the KU Cancer Fighters community, often sharing how much the support of fellow Jayhawks meant to him. “One day at a time,” he would say, focusing on the present and cherishing his many blessings—especially the love of his family and friends.
Jack’s resilience and spirit inspired everyone around him. He often referenced one of his heroes, the late Jim Valvano, whose unforgettable 1993 ESPY speech reminded him: “Cancer can take away all my physical abilities. But it cannot touch my mind. It cannot touch my heart. And it cannot touch my soul.” That quote became a personal mantra for Jack, whose mind, heart, and soul never wavered.
Jack is survived by his loving wife and partner in life, and their three children, who were the pride and joy of his world. He was a devoted father who took great joy in family traditions, road trips, basketball watch parties, and quiet moments of connection. He approached parenthood with the same dedication and heart that he brought to every area of his life.
To his friends, Jack was more than a sports fan or a cancer warrior. He was a man of integrity, humility, humor, and fierce loyalty. He showed up for people—with encouragement, with presence, with love.
His journey, shared by many through updates and heartfelt posts, resonated deeply with the KU community and beyond. On March 1, 2025, the KU Cancer Fighters celebrated his birthday and his fighting spirit with a special tribute that read, “Jack, in honor of your birthday yesterday and your incredibly inspiring attitude EVERY DAY, today’s call is for you. Rock Chalk!”