Honoring the Legacy of Delmar “Del” Krieghbaum

Few people have left a greater mark on Sugar Grove than Delmar “Del” Krieghbaum (1924–2023). Born and raised on his family’s farm in Kaneville, Del devoted nearly a century to serving the community he loved. Whether delivering milk, driving a school bus, coaching baseball, reading water meters, working with the Park District, or simply visiting with neighbors, Del built friendships everywhere he went and truly never met a stranger. Del was a founding member of the Sugar Grove Volunteer Fire Department and served for more than 50 years, including 34 years as Fire Chief. His leadership helped shape the department through decades of growth, and he proudly welcomed the first female firefighters into its ranks. He also served on the Sugar Grove Village Board and was an active member of the Sugar Grove Lions Club, Kane County Fire Chiefs’ Association, Sugar Grove American Legion Auxiliary, and the Sugar Grove Historical Society.

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the Sugar Grove Park District will honor Del’s extraordinary life through the Run to Remember 5K & Fun Run. The Krieghbaum family has chosen the Sugar Grove Historical Society as the event’s charitable partner in recognition of Del’s lifelong commitment to preserving the community he helped build. Participants and community members are invited to make a voluntary donation to the Sugar Grove Historical Society. Your support helps us collect, preserve, and share the stories of the people, places, and events that have shaped Sugar Grove for future generations.

Del’s legacy lives on, not only through the lives he touched, but through the history we continue to preserve and celebrate