In Their Own Words: Meet Third Ward Aldermanic Candidate Dean J. Kilburg

I’m running for the Third Ward aldermanic seat here in Geneva. The Patch asked that I share some information about myself.

Linda and I are married 40 years and the parents of Aaron, Rachel, Nathan and Sarah. All graduated from Geneva High School and universities in Illinois and are now married. We have six grandkids, all living in the Fox Valley. For 24 years we’ve been residents and a homeowner in the Third Ward.

I graduated from Loras College—Dubuque, IA, in 1971. RidleyUSA Inc. is a multi-national agricultural company and has been my employer for more than 27 years.

My community involvement includes 12 years in elective office on the Geneva School Board—the last six as president. I’ve served on several committees, including the Geneva Strategic Planning Design Team and Citizen’s Advisory Committee for the Kane County Jail Construction.

Currently, I serve on the Fermilab Citizen Advisory Board and Community Chest Board as well as spending a few hours a week as a reading volunteer at Harrison Street School.

In the '90s, I served as president of the Geneva Sports Boosters and on the Geneva Academic Foundation Board. All were great experiences. I am also a long term member of St. Peter Parish, the Geneva History Center and Fox River Trail Runners.

Before moving to Illinois, I served as president of the Iowa Jaycees as well as national vice president of the U.S. Jaycees. I also served six years on the Plan & Zone Commission in Bellevue, IA.

I once read that “service to humanity is the best work of life.” I would have to agree.

Editor's note: Geneva Patch invited candidates in local contested races—for Park Board, School Board and City Council seats—to tell us a little bit about themselves in 300 words or less. Candidates also are invited to submit a final essay prior to the election.