Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave dies unexpectedly

RACINE, Wis. - Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave died unexpectedly early Friday, June 28. He was 51 years old.

Delagrave's staff told FOX6 that he died of natural causes. A Racine alderperson told FOX6 that Delagrave was jogging and found on the Waterford Union High School track.

"The nicest human being you'd ever want to meet. It was never about him; he was always trying to help someone or something," said Thomas Roanhouse, Racine County Board supervisor. "Leaders like that are rare and hard to find."

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Delagrave was born and raised in Racine County and lived in the area his entire life, according to the county. He graduated from Case High School before earning degrees from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

"The entire community is just in shock. I mean, he was a fantastic leader for the entire county," said Racine Mayor Cory Mason, who knew Delagrave since the two attended Case High School. "He meant a lot to this community and gave his entire professional life to improving the place that he called home."

Delagrave's lasting impact

Board leaders said Delagrave had a passion for mental health care, the fentanyl crisis, juvenile and youth care, and family recreation. Some of those passion projects were in the initial stages of coming to fruition.

"He was a visionary," Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow said. "When you look at his legacy, I think he set the county up to really be in good condition for the next number of years to come."

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"(Delagrave's) an excellent leader, other people can definitely take note from his leadership," Racine Ald. Renee Kelly said.

County Board Chair Tom Kramer will serve as the acting county executive until the position is filled. Delagrave was first elected to the post in 2015.

Official statements

Racine County

It is with deepest sorrow and profound compassion that we share news of the unexpected passing of our beloved County Executive, Jonathan Delagrave, during the early hours of June 28th, 2024.

This tragic loss has left our community in a state of great sadness, as we mourn the untimely departure of a remarkable leader, devoted public servant, and cherished friend. Jonathan's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all those within our county was truly inspirational, and his compassionate approach to governance touched the hearts of countless individuals.

In this difficult time, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Jonathan’s family, friends, colleagues, and the entire community. We ask for privacy for the family as they navigate through this tremendous loss.

County Board Chairman Tom Kramer will assume the duties and responsibilities of county executive until the position is filled by the board under Wis. Stat. § 59.17(7).  Further communications will be released when they become available.

Racine Mayor Cory Mason

"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."

Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow

"I am shocked and saddened by the news that my friend and fellow County Executive Jonathan Delagrave has passed away. He was a great leader and friend who always put the needs of Racine County residents first. His voice will be missed by all who knew him. My prayers go to his family and the entire Racine County leadership team."

Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson (via X)

Outagamie County shares its sincere condolences with the family of Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave on his untimely passing. A committed public servant, Executive Delagrave served his community with distinction and honor. He will be missed, but his legacy will live on.

State Sen. Van Wanggaard (R-Racine)

"Mary Jo and I are heartbroken by the passing of Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave.  Jonathan was like a little brother to me, with a great, positive spirit. He was a true public servant.

"It was never "can’t do" with Jonathan, it was always "how can we do". And the emphasis was on the "we." Jonathan had the unique ability to bring people together to solve large problems to help everyone, no matter their station in life. It will be almost impossible to replace Jonathan, his positive impact on Racine County was that strong. Racine County, I and thousands more will miss his unique spirit."

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley

"It’s a sad day in Southeastern Wisconsin as we mourn the unexpected loss of Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave, a devoted public servant who worked to improve the lives of the residents and families he served. Jonathan was an excellent leader who cared deeply for Racine and delivered results for his community through regional collaboration and innovation. Racine County and the State of Wisconsin are better off because of Jonathan’s commitment to service. My thoughts and condolences go out to his family, loved ones, and the Racine community."

Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann

"I join with the Racine County community and all who knew and loved Jonathan Delagrave in mourning his unexpected and untimely passing today. Jonathan willingly dove into problems and contributed greatly to finding solutions. We formed a strong bond through our tenure together with the Wisconsin Counties Association and Wisconsin County Executives and Administrators Association. But most importantly, he was a good man, and it was an honor to know him. May his family find comfort and peace in their memories and the support of all who loved him."

Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman

"I was devastated when I learned of County Executive Delagrave’s passing this morning. It is a profound loss not only to Racine County but to the region and the state, and of course to his family.

"Jonathan was a friend and mentor to me. He enjoyed talking about his mission to make Racine County a fun place to work while also helping people, and that to me is his legacy in a nutshell. He will be greatly missed."