Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave passes away unexpectedly

 

RACINE COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Days after the sudden death of Racine County's executive, those who worked with Jonathan Delagrave want others to know he was a dedicated leader and will be greatly missed.

"It's been a rough couple days. He was really loved by staff and just about everybody in the county," said Thomas Kramer, interim Racine County executive.

Across Racine County, it's a somber day for those who knew Jonathan Delagrave. As county executive since 2015, he was a leader among leaders.

"He was always willing to share himself and be a problem solver. He will always be, it's like there's a piece of my heart that is missing," said State Senator Van Wanggaard, (R) District 21.

From Microsoft to mental health, Delagrave impressed many as a man who grew up in Racine County and truly cared about making it better.

"This is really about the infrastructure and the investment, not so much the jobs," said Delagrave in 2023.

"It is our belief and goal that this center will be a positive step towards eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health," said Delagrave in 2023.

Among his works, Jonathan Delagrave fought hard to be a support for mental health. One building is being expanded thanks to a $25 million investment for a new consolidating mental health services building.

Racine County shared the news Friday saying Jonathan had "unwavering commitment," "a compassionate approach" and that he "touched the hearts of countless individuals."

Racine Mayor Mason shared the following statement following Delagrave's passing:

“I’ve known Jonathan since we were 14 years old together at Case High School. As mayor, it has been an honor to serve alongside him in his role as county executive. Jonathan was an amazing leader for Racine County. We are all at a loss from his passing. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”

"What I"m gonna miss about Jonathan is his spirit and his devotion to his family, first off, and to this county, second of all," said Beth Heidorn, executive director, Racine Zoo.

Friends often saw Delagrave at the Racine YMCA where they say he worked out at least six days a week. The YMCA expressed sadness on their Facebook page.

"He'd be walking or lightly running. Once in a while I'd see him lift weights here and there, but he seemed very active. It was just shocking. I couldn't believe it, still don't believe it," said Fabi Maldonado, former Racine County Board supervisor, district two.

A close friend tells us Delagrave was committed to fitness and at 51, was in the best shape of his life.

"Talked to him just a few days ago and just normal conversation, and it just goes to prove that every day is a blessing. No one's irreplaceable but it will be very difficult to fulfill all the things that Jonathan did," said Senator Wanggaard.