Kyler Jakob Campion

November 16, 2000 – October 5, 2025

A Life of Brilliance, Compassion, and Love

The Ann Arbor and Chicago communities are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Kyler Jakob Campion, age 24 — a beloved son, brother, partner, and friend whose life reflected warmth, intelligence, and deep compassion.

Born to Jennifer Gentile and Trevor Campion, Kyler grew up surrounded by love and family. From a young age, he was known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and ability to make everyone around him feel valued. His natural gift for communication and empathy guided him toward a life dedicated to understanding and justice.

A Promising Mind and Purposeful Heart

At the time of his passing, Kyler was a J.D. candidate at the University of Michigan Law School, where he was admired for both his intellect and his kindness. Professors and classmates described him as someone who combined excellence with humility — a student who believed deeply in fairness and in helping others.

In a statement, the Law School remembered him as “a student of exceptional intellect, leadership, and compassion.”

Before attending Michigan Law, Kyler earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from Michigan State University, graduating with honors and a deep commitment to public service.

His professional path already reflected his promise: he worked as a Law Clerk at Kirby McInerney LLP in Chicago and previously served as an Auditor/Evaluator I at the California State Auditor’s Office in Sacramento.

He also interned with The Law Offices of Darryl A. Goldberg, Okemos Legal Group, PLLC, and the Eaton County Prosecutor’s Office, Economic Crimes Unit — experiences that allowed him to pair his keen analytical mind with his sense of fairness and purpose.

Kyler’s drive and perfectionism were extraordinary, leading him to excel academically from earning near-perfect scores on his CPS entrance exam, SAT, and LSAT, to graduating from Michigan State University with a double major and over a dozen honors.

He was always so hard on himself, holding himself to impossibly high standards — but he was always enough for us. His kindness, humor, and heart were what truly made him exceptional.

A Devoted Son, Brother, and Friend

More than any achievement, Kyler cherished his family. He was the proud big brother of Brayden (16), Callan (16) Quentin (15) Dylan (14), and Cameron (13) — each of whom he loved fiercely.

He was protective, patient, and endlessly supportive, whether he was helping with homework, playing games, or simply being there to listen. Time with his brothers was filled with laughter, imagination, and love.

Kyler shared a special bond with both of his parents. His mother, Jennifer, was his foundation of strength, devotion, and unconditional love — a constant presence who nurtured his curiosity and compassion. His father, Trevor Campion, had an incredible ability to make Kyler laugh, even in the most stressful moments. Their shared humor and closeness brought balance and joy to Kyler’s life, reminding him to take a breath and find light in the everyday.

He shared a deep bond with Siera. Through her love, patience, and strength, she helped Kyler see the beauty in life beyond achievement. He had many incredible lifelong friendships, especially with Max and Michael, who will forever remember his humor, loyalty, and sarcasm. The 3 amigos always showed up for each other.

Those who knew Kyler describe him as a “sharp mind and generous spirit” who carried both brilliance and kindness in equal measure. His calm presence, genuine curiosity, and ability to make others feel seen left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Cherished and Remembered Always

Kyler is survived by his mother, Jennifer Gentile; father, Trevor Campion; stepfather, Brett Maher; stepmother, Karen Campion; brothers Callan, Brayden, Quentin, Dylan, and Cameron; grandmother Joyce Campion; aunts Adrianne, Kristin and Ines; Uncle Bryan; cherished cousins; and many devoted friends.

He now joins his beloved grandparents — Grandma Char and Grandpa Pat — whose love and guidance helped shape the man he became.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with an open casket from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Drake and Sons Funeral Home, 5303 North Western Avenue, Chicago, with a memorial service beginning at 6:00 PM. Brett and Jen will also be holding a “celebration of life” for any of Kyler‘s friends who wish to attend. It will be Saturday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at O’Donovan‘s on Irving park.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes acts of kindness in Kyler’s memory — whether through a gesture toward someone in need, a moment of compassion shared with a stranger, or a donation to Elyssa’s Mission, an organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental-health education for young people.

Forever Loved, Forever Remembered

https://elyssasmission.org

Kyler’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be remembered for his brilliance, empathy, humor, and the light he brought into so many lives — a life that ended far too soon, yet one that will continue to inspire love, purpose, and understanding in those he leaves behind.