Honoring Herb Horn, 1946-2025

With tremendous sadness, CAC announces the passing of Herb Horn, Past President of the Board of Directors and a 13-year board member. From the twinkle in his eye, to his ever-present smile to his wisdom delivered with honesty and empathy, Herb Horn led by example and served CAC with generosity, kindness and complete confidence in the mission.

To say he will be missed is an understatement, and CAC extends our heartfelt condolences to Herb's wife and best friend, Bonnie, children Jonathan and Michelle, and Herb's extended family and friends. Thank you for sharing Herb with CAC. He was a gift whose impact will continue to be felt for years to come.

Rabbi Cohen shared this favorite quote of Herb's at the memorial service, so we share it also with you: "I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be." (Douglas Adams, The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul).

CAC is forever grateful that Herb Horn ended up with us.

In Memory of Herb Horn - from Melanie Pignotti, CAC CEO

I have not known the Children’s Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County (CAC) without Herb Horn. Over the past eight years in my various roles at CAC, Herb was a constant, a steady, passionate presence whose commitment never wavered.

 When I stepped into the role of CEO three years ago, Herb was serving as Board Chair. From the beginning, it was clear how deeply devoted he was to CAC’s mission, and how tirelessly he worked to ensure its strength and stability. His leadership was not just strategic, it was personal. He poured his heart into this work, championing fund development, sustainability, and above all, the well-being of our staff and the clients we serve.

On a personal level, Herb was there for me every step of the way. His kindness, generosity, and sharp wit were a gift during even the most difficult days. He believed in this organization, and he believed in me. That kind of faith and encouragement is rare, and I will carry it with me always.

Herb’s passing is a profound loss for all of us. His absence will be felt deeply, but so will his legacy. He has left an indelible mark on CAC, and on all of us who had the privilege to work alongside him.

He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Herb Horn will always be part of CAC.

In Memory of Herb Horn - from Bob Tucker, CAC Board Member

Year after year we would talk about how great it would be to have a legacy program at CAC. Thanks to Herb and Bonnie that program is a reality with the Horns being the first ones to make the commitment to meaningfully support the CAC. This is one fitting, ongoing way to honor the memory of a tremendous supporter of our organization and a man who made the world a better place in so many ways.

In Memory of Herb Horn - from Bob Bensdorf, CAC Board Member

I haven’t known Herb that long, but immediately we became close.  With similar Backgrounds in family businesses we became kindred spirits having shared similar painful experiences.  Who would have thought it possible to make a living manufacturing and selling onion rings.  More than that Herb was kind, generous and loved the CAC with all his soul. I am grateful for his friendship and introducing me to the CAC family. Good by my friend.  I will miss your friendship as well as our canasta games...

In Memory of Herb Horn - from Jeff Foreman, CAC Board Member

Herb was a kind, authentic, hardworking man who helped build the Children’s Advocacy Center of North & Northwest Cook County into the fantastic and effective organization it is today.  His leadership, mentorship and willingness to roll up his sleeves and get things done was truly admirable.  He was always willing to answer my phone call and give me advice or help vet an idea, and for that I am grateful.  I am so saddened by his sudden passing.  He will be missed.