Late Kane County Board Member Dale Berman Remembered by Colleagues
The Kane County Board remembered their colleague, Dale Berman, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 91. During the Kane County Board meeting on Oct. 14, members honored Berman’s legacy as a kind person, dedicated leader, and true public servant. Berman’s family was recognized during the meeting and presented with an American flag by the Kane County Sheriff’s Honor Guard in tribute to his years of service to the community.
Berman was known throughout the Fox Valley for his service and dedication to others. Nicknamed “The Legend,” he earned that title through his accomplishments and long connection to Northern Illinois University and its football program. After beginning at Northwestern University, he served two years in the U.S. Army before joining NIU, where he became team captain, All-Conference player, and MVP. He later worked in computer systems for IBM, Xerox, and BRK Electronics before retiring in 1996.
A North Aurora resident for 62 years, Berman served as Village President, Village Trustee, and on several local and county boards, including the Kane County Board. He was named North Auroran of the Year in 2013 and received the Village’s first Community Challenge Coin.
Kane County Board Chairman Corinne Pierog read a statement about Berman, recalling his calm leadership and steady optimism. “In 2020, during the midst of a pandemic, Dale Berman joined me and other Kane County Board members,” Pierog said. “As we began working together in a world turned upside down, order gradually took shape, fear transformed into healing, and politics evolved into compassion.” She described Berman as “a major volunteer, an incredible father, and a devoted husband who deeply valued public service.”
Berman was selected as Chair of the Finance Committee and also served as Vice Chair of the Development Committee, as well as on the Administration, Transportation, Land, Cash, Liquor, Riverboat, and Stormwater Committees. Even during his illness, Pierog noted, “he served actively, with his laptop at his side, listening and reviewing the issues brought forward to the Board.” She called him “a true moderate, seeking the right answer to complex issues, not the expedient or political one,” and said that “in a polarized world, his voice often served as a bridge—fostering dialogue, understanding, and compromise.” She closed by quoting him directly: “To quote Dale himself, ‘Life is good.’”
The family stood for photos at the end of the remembrance, including a lighthearted picture requested by Kane County Board Member Michelle Gumz, who said Berman would have appreciated the humor.
