Lonn W. Meade

Lonn William Meade, age 57, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Chicago, Illinois, on July 12, 2026.

Lonn was born on January 29, 1969, in Harvard, Illinois, to William Meade and Lea (Brugger) Meade, who later married Gordon Ballweg. He graduated from Harvard High School with the Class of 1987.

From an early age, Lonn was fearless and curious. As a young boy, he watched his father operate a bulldozer while moving dirt to build a new road behind the family's first home. Later that day, determined to see if he could do it himself, Lonn quietly climbed aboard and managed to start the bulldozer. Fortunately, his father reached him before he could put it in motion. It became one of those family stories that perfectly captured his adventurous spirit and confidence.

Throughout his life, Lonn worked for a variety of companies in many different roles. A man of many talents, he believed that anything worth doing was worth doing well. Whether swimming, competing in BMX motocross, breakdancing, or mastering a new skill, Lonn gave his full effort and often excelled.

Lonn was an accomplished powerlifter and among the strongest people anyone knew. He could bench press an astonishing 425 pounds. Despite his incredible strength, he never lost his sense of humor. Before attempting one of his heaviest lifts, he would jokingly ask his mom to "spot" him in case he couldn't get the barbell back onto the rack—a memory that continues to bring smiles to those who loved him.

One of Lonn's greatest gifts was the way he treated people. He had a warm, friendly manner that immediately put others at ease. He could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. His generous heart was one of his defining qualities. Whether helping a friend, assisting a neighbor, or giving to someone less fortunate, Lonn was always willing to lend a hand without expecting anything in return.

Lonn is lovingly survived by his father, William (Dawn) Meade of Pingree Grove, Illinois; his mother, Lea (Gordon) Ballweg of Huntley, Illinois; his brother, Tyson (Tricia) Meade of Wonder Lake, Illinois; his nieces, Kayla and Sarah Meade of Wonder Lake, Illinois; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Howard and Louise Meade, Dale and Beverly Brugger and his aunt Nancy Aasen.

A private family ceremony will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Salvation Army in Lonn's memory, honoring the kindness and generosity that defined his life.

Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home is honored to serve the Meade family. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.