Former Illinois News Anchor Lesley Swick-Van Ness Dies After Sudden Illness on Vacation
Former Illinois News Anchor Lesley Swick-Van Ness Dies After Sudden Illness on Vacation
Former Illinois news anchor, Lesley Swick-Van Ness’ passed away on Monday morning while on vacation with her family. She was just 42 years old.
Lesley started her career at NBC affiliate WGEM in 2003 as a reporter. She quickly rose through the ranks and became the weekend anchor in 2006. Two years later, in 2008, she became the weekday evening anchor, a position she held for eight years before transitioning to a recruiting role for the company in 2016.
Colleagues who worked with Lesley during her time at WGEM fondly remember her as a leader in the newsroom and a trusted member of the community. Matt Schmidt, who was an anchor at the station from 2007 to 2014, recalls Lesley’s commanding presence and powerful personality.
“She was a force to be reckoned with. She could walk into the newsroom and instantly take over. Sitting on the news desk with her was an awesome experience,” Schmidt said.
Brian Inman, who currently serves as a meteorologist at WGEM, remembers Lesley as someone who was always willing to go the extra mile for the community.
“She wasn’t afraid to do the dirty work and wasn’t afraid to work the extra hour, especially if it was something that was really impacting the community,” Inman said.
Lesley’s impact on the community extended far beyond her work as a news anchor. She was deeply involved in local organizations and was an advocate for various causes. Her sudden passing has left a void in the Tri-State community, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Lesley is survived by her husband, Tom, and their two sons. Her family has asked for privacy during this difficult time as they grieve their loss.
The news of Lesley’s passing has been met with an outpouring of support from the community. Friends, colleagues, and viewers alike have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Lesley.
“Lesley was a consummate professional, and she will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this difficult time,” one viewer wrote on Facebook.
Another commenter shared a memory of meeting Lesley at a local charity event, saying, “She was so kind and gracious. She took the time to talk to everyone and made everyone feel special. The community has lost a true gem.”
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