Geneva 5th Ward alderman Ralph Dantino died Monday, Feb. 18, on Presidents Day 2013 at his home, surrounded by family and friends.
Third Ward Alderman Dean Kilburg passed along the sad news with a brief statement at about 1:03 p.m.
"It is with a deep sadness that I share that Ralph passed away today at his home here in Geneva. Ralph fought a gallant battle with his cancer over the last four years," he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and their children, Tom and Sara Sheridan, Russell, Lindsey and Drew."
Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns offered heartfelt condolences, as well.
"Geneva has lost another of it's long-time friends and tireless advocate for our community," he said. "Mr. Dantino's contributions were many and his commitment to make Geneva a special place to call home will endure."
Dantino had been battling a rare appendix cancer. A Rally for Ralph in June raised funds for the family's mounting medical bills and experimental cancer treatment.
In December, Dantino announced he would be seek re-election as 5th Ward alderman, and he is unopposed on the April ballot.
He told the Kane County Chronicle in December that he was feeling good and that he was running again because "I enjoy doing it."
In addition to his role as alderman, Dantino is a former School Board member, Dancing With the Geneva Stars contestant and perennial community volunteer. He is known on the council for his brief but inciteful questions and for being a fiscal conservative on most voting matters.
Geneva Patch will update this article and follow up when additional information is available.
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Rick Nagel
1:52 pm on Monday, February 18, 2013
I had a chance to talk with Ralph a few times after City Council meetings, and I can't say enough about his courage and grace during his battle with cancer. We lost a very good man today.
Colin C.
1:55 pm on Monday, February 18, 2013
We are just so sad to hear this. Ralph will always be remembered in Geneva as one who put others, and this City, first. This is a great loss for all of us.
Michael Jacoby
4:14 pm on Monday, February 18, 2013
Ralph was a servant of the people and a positive influence on so many of us. His memory will live on through his contributions, but we are so sad to say goodbye.
Rod Nelson
5:25 pm on Monday, February 18, 2013
Ralph was one of my son's GBA baseball coaches...one of his many gifts and contributions. He will be missed while his contributions will endure and be revered.
Matilda B
6:43 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
My deepest sympathy for his family. Ralph was a wonderful person who believed in contributing to his community. I will keep them in my prayers
Teresa Keenan
7:25 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Ralph was everywhere for many years... Church/school board/city... How many people must have been inspired by him, to have an amazing life of dedication to family & community? Godspeed to you Ralph.
Aaron Kilburg
8:34 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to Nancy and the family. Ralph dedicated his life to serving his family, friends, and community and he will be missed dearly by all those who loved him.
Ken Schuman
8:45 am on Tuesday, February 19, 2013
I had the privilege of coaching in Geneva Baseball with Ralph when I was relatively new in town. His youngest son was the same age as my oldest. The experience of working with him was fantastic. I don't remember what our record was but I know we had a good time and I learned a lot from Ralph. He has served the residents of Geneva in so many ways over the years. He was a rare breed and will be missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.