Funeral Details

Neil S. Ament, age 57, of Highland Park, passed away peacefully in his home on December 13, 2018. He was a devoted son to Rosalind (Becker) Ament; an adoring father to Melissa Ament; a beloved stepfather to Jared Silber; a loving brother to Steven Ament, Michele (Enzo) Fiorenza, and Nina Ament. He also leaves behind his former wife (Debbi Spungen) and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Neil was born in Chicago and grew up in Highland Park, where he first fell in love with playing hockey. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1979. Neil attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he first started honing his craft behind the lens as staff photographer at The Daily Cardinal (the UW-Madison’s student newspaper, which has been in circulation since 1892), and he graduated with his Bachelors degree. He next went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree in Law from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, working on Law Review and participating in Moot Court finals in New York. His enthusiasm for action and excitement emanated from his spirit. Neil loved to play hockey, ski, bike, hike, fish, and camp. In addition to his professional life as a lawyer, Neil avidly pursued his hobbies and passions in his spare time. Often found on the sidelines of the University of Wisconsin Badger games or helping friends capture special moments in their kids' sporting events, he had a knack for putting you right in the middle of the action. His eye for detail and incredible timing found the most exciting angles and interesting perspectives. Neil created some of the most indelible images that stayed with you long after the game was over - even catching the attention of Sports Illustrated, who presented him an amateur sports photography award and afforded him the professional opportunity to shoot with them on assignment. Neil had a special affinity for Chicago’s major sports teams. He was especially passionate for the Cubs (inspired by his beloved grandfather, Henry S. Becker), Blackhawks, and the Bears (attending his last game one week ago, when they beat the Rams). He was a music connoisseur, most notably a dedicated Dead Head. Above all, Neil will be remembered as an active and passionate man, fun-loving father, and loyal friend. He will be missed by many. Service Monday 2PM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road (One block north of Lake Cook Road) Buffalo Grove. Interment Shalom Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Athletics Scholarship Fund, supportthebadgers.athletics.wisc.edu/. Arrangements by: Chicago Jewish Funerals, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com