Funeral Details

It is my loss not to have met Jeff or Susan Mackevich, but I mourn their loss, having followed the news of their final illnesses with my great nephew, Max Schapiro, who is now a member of their family. It is a blessing for Max and Carrie, as it was for Jeff, for him to attend their wedding. Jeff and his daughters and sons-in-law were also blessed to be able to spend his last days with him and share their mutual devotion and love. May his memory be a blessing for all his family and friends, and may he rest in peace.

Sylvia Weber

For 30 + years Jeff was many things to the Woolford family. He was our friend, financial planner, and neighbor.
We met Jeff and Suzy when we moved to Chicago and loved to hear them both, so proudly, speak of their three amazing daughters’.
Navigating career and children came easy to them.

Jeff was extremely giving of his time and calm wisdom and helped all our family in so many ways. Helping us comfortably navigate different scenarios. He always had an ear to lend and sound advice to offer.

We are so much better for having such a kind and capable friend in our court.
We all know the court was his favorite place and he had so many wonderful tennis memories there.

RIP dear friend.
In Love and Friendship
The Woolfords
Scott, Jennifer, Aubrey and Cooper


Scott Woolford

I had known Jeff since the mid-90’s. We were introduced by his lifelong friend and my musical colleague, Jim Trompeter. It was our shared love of Jazz Saxophone that started our friendship, but it was not limited to it.

This week, as Alan Zukrow shared the sad news, he asked me if I had a unique or crazy story about Jeff that I could share. After a brief pause, I replied, “I really don’t, but what I do remember is that Jeff himself was a rare and unique friend”. Jeff was the kind of person that I could talk about anything with and know he would truly listen. We had periods where we had not spoken in a year or two, and could immediately pick up where we left off. I can’t remember a time when he wasn’t a positive and comforting source—and I certainly needed it more than once. Every contact I had with him I left as a slightly better person. He had enough confidence in himself to give credit where it was due and was always asking questions about the other person’s life instead of talking about himself. Isn’t that unique enough today?

Despite his busy professional and family life, Jeff became an excellent amateur Jazz player and demonstrated it in a performance at the Chicago Jazz Festival. www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSqlqWUGDM8
I was so proud of his musical growth! You can see and feel how much he enjoyed playing! If only more pros could espouse that same feeling instead of worrying about looking ‘cool’!

Jeff was a true friend, a giving, other-centered person of warmth and integrity. I hope I have enough time grow into the person he was—and that will be enough.

Russ Nolan

I had the privilege to meet Jeff as a client of mine out here in the California Desert about 13 years ago.
Even though we only saw each other in person for about 14 days per year, our relationship became quickly a friendship.
We shared the tennis court during his time here up to 6 hours daily, which tells you a little bit about his passion for the sport. I have been in the people/sports business the past 35 years and can comfortably say Jeff became my hero in many ways. You do not meet people like Jeff very often in life. The way he carried himself on the court, off the court, the way he handled our discussions about God and the world, I realized very quickly what a wonderful, compassionate, honest, and straight forward human being he is. His emphasis on family, business, sport, music was infectious and inspiring.
My deepest condolences go to his family. I will dedicate my backhand slice winner down the line today to you my friend. Know that you will be deeply missed. Rest in peace. You were the perfect example of the MENSCH! Coach Olli from Germany

Oliver Vorwald