Former Illinois News anchor Lesley Swick-Van Ness dies after sudden illness while on vacation

Former Illinois News anchor Lesley Swick-Van Ness dies after sudden illness while on vacation

Former Illinois news anchor, Lesley Swick-Van Ness’ died Monday morning while on vacation with her family. She was only 42 years old.

Lesley began his career at NBC affiliate WGEM in 2003 as a reporter. She quickly rose through the ranks and became the weekend presenter in 2006. Two years later, in 2008, she became the weekday evening presenter, a position she held for eight years before moving to a recruiting position for the company in 2016.

Colleagues who worked with Lesley during her time at WGEM remember her as a leader in the newsroom and a trusted member of the community. Matt Schmidt, who was a presenter at the station from 2007 to 2014, remembers 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 with her at the news desk was a great experience,” Schmidt said.

Brian Inman, who is currently 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 overtime, especially if it was something that really had an impact on the community,” Inman said.

Lesley’s the impact on the community extended far beyond her work as a news anchor. She was deeply involved in local organizations and championed various causes. Her sudden passing 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 have asked for privacy during this difficult time as they mourn their loss.

The news of Lesley’s his passing sparked an outpouring of support from the community. Friends, colleagues and viewers took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Lesley.

“Lesley was a consummate professional and will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” a 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 real gem.

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