Couple’s Gift Will Feed Generations of Neighbors—A Tribute to Our Hometown Heroes

Longtime friends of Northern Illinois Food Bank, Neal and Lois Oppenheimer were dedicated to serving children, families, and seniors in need across our community. For 10 years, they helped provide nourishing food when our neighbors needed it most. When we lost Lois and Neal (in 2018 and 2019, respectively), we lost two of the kindest, humblest friends we could have asked for. Today, their legacy lives on.

Neal and Lois remembered the Food Bank’s life-changing work with an estate donation of over $1.6 million— one of the largest single gifts in the Food Bank’s history. From our perspective, they are true heroes in the ongoing effort to solve hunger in Northern Illinois. “Neal and Lois lived a modest lifestyle—it’s no surprise to me that they would give everything to those in need,” says Jennifer Gutzwiller, the Oppenheimers’ goddaughter.

We’re pleased to celebrate the Oppenheimers’ legacy with you today. Their overwhelming generosity will help us provide food and hope for generations of neighbors to come. The Food Bank’s Board of Directors has designated the Oppenheimer gift to be added to the Food Bank’s endowment fund. Board Chair Dirk Locascio said, “This extraordinary gift could not have arrived at a more impactful time. Estate gifts like this one from the Oppenheimers assure that we will be able to serve our vulnerable neighbors whenever there is a surge in hunger.”

From everyone at the Food Bank—and the families who will receive food because of this incredible gift—thank you, Neal and Lois!