James LaVerne Delagrave

James L. Delagrave, age 90, of North Prairie, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025. He was born on August 28, 1935, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the son of Louis O. Delagrave and Katherine (Tischer) Delagrave.

Jim grew up in La Crosse, where his father owned and operated the family business, Del’s Bar. He graduated from Aquinas High School in 1953 and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, earning a degree in Political Science. He later received his master’s degree in School Social Work from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

Jim dedicated his life to the service of others. He began his long career as a social worker for the Milwaukee Public Schools and later retired as the Director of Special Education and Supportive Services. His steadfast commitment to improving the lives of students and families left a lasting legacy on the community he so deeply cared for.

In addition to his career in education, Jim proudly served as an elected Town Board Supervisor for the Town of Caledonia from 1978 to 1992. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in ensuring that the residents of Caledonia had access to the Racine Public Library—donating his own board salary to help make this possible. This generous act stands as another testament to his lifelong belief in the power of education and public service.

Later in life, Jim moved to Summerfield, Florida, where he enjoyed daily swims, numerous activities, and traveling with his special friend, Nancy Clair.

Jim’s greatest treasures, though, were his children and grandchildren. Whether he was sharing his memorable “Jimmie and Dickie” stories—always complete with a moral and a few listening comprehension questions—or taking trips to Disney and braving the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster alongside his grandkids, Jim cherished every moment with them. He took immense pride in their acts of kindness, strong work ethic, and the joy and humor they brought to his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jonathan J. Delagrave, former Racine County Executive; his parents; and his siblings, Marie Reihl, Warren Delagrave, Gene Delagrave, and Tony Tanke.

Jim is survived by his loving daughter, Ingrid Delagrave Schultz (Jon); his grandchildren, Adam J. Schultz, Hannah M. Schultz, Nicholas C. Schultz, Christian J. Schultz, Maguire J. Delagrave, and Makenzy M. Delagrave; his sister, Patricia (Ron) Fortney; and his former wife and mother of his two children, Linda (Gonzalo) Gonzalez. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember his humor, warmth, and wisdom.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Jim’s dedicated caregivers throughout the past three years—Riley, Doug and Denise, Emma, Martina, Maddie, Lauryn, and Emily—for their care, compassion, and kindness, which allowed Jim to live his final years with the dignity and respect he deserved.

Jim believed deeply in the power of family, public service, and education—a conviction he instilled in his children and grandchildren. His life was a testament to the profound difference one person can make through empathy, generosity, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others.

Services celebrating Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066). Visitation will take place prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.