Jeffrey Lenn Campbell

Too soon, Jeffrey Lenn Campbell died on August 10, 2016. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 24, 1964, to Ruth Campbell and Prentice Flowers. He grew up in South Bend, Indiana; served four years in the United States Coast Guard; and received his pharmacy degree from the University of Chicago.

Jeffrey moved to Des Moines in 1995 and shortly thereafter opened Soul City Café on 6th Avenue. State and local elected officials were among those who loved the food that he prepared. He published a recipe book with some of the most popular menu items. He served on the Iowa Food Policy Council created by Iowa Governor Vilsack and in 1999, was a graduate of the Des Moines Leadership Institute. Jeffrey was a recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award and served on a national board advocating for people suffering from kidney disease.

Jeffrey worked for many years as a fitness instructor, was accomplished in the performing arts (“Angels in America”), and loved tennis, travel and bridge. After his successful kidney transplant in 2009, he traveled to Hawaii, Europe, Egypt, and Africa -- twice. He enjoyed seven ocean cruises to many fascinating ports of call. He also loved his Saluki dog Alex, and Alex is going to miss Jeffrey very much.

Jeffrey is survived by Friedhelm Brinkhaus, his partner of over 25 years. Also surviving him are his sister, Terri Walker; brothers, James Campbell and Levon Campbell; as well as nieces, Eboney Campbell, Lakeesha Williams and Tanisha Davis; Lakeesha’s grand-nieces; and a host of friends, all of whom will also miss Jeffrey very much.

Friedhelm is a mountain climber and in keeping with Jeffrey’s wishes, will place Jeffrey’s ashes on the top of a mountain where it will be easier to see the promised land.

Memorial donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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