• Editor’s Note: This is the third in a series counting down the top 10 Kane County Connects stories of 2016.

The year 2016 was marked by tragedy as well as triumph.

In May, Kane County Division of Transportation employee Steve Chidester was doing routine maintenance work when he was struck and killed by a Ford F250 pickup on Harter Road in Blackberry Township.

Kane County Division of Transportation Director Carl Schoedel said the loss touched everyone in his department and extended to the entire Kane County family.

“Nothing prepares us for the incredible weight of sadness when we lose a co-worker,” he said. “Steve was as tough as nails on the outside, but a caring person with a warm heart.”

In July, Kane County co-workers adopted a 3.8-mile segment of Harter Road, from Scott to Seavey in memory of Chidester, as part of the county’s Adopt-A-Highway program.

In August, Kaneland High School’s cross-country team recognized Chidester, who was a standout runner for the Knights during his high school years, on the team’s 50th anniversary T-shirt.

Read More

• Kane County Mourns Sudden Death of Road-Maintenance Worker Steve Chidester
• Kane County Employees Adopt A Highway in Memory of Steve Chidester
• Kaneland Cross Country Team’s 50th Anniversary T-Shirt Honors Steve Chidester

2016 Top Stories Countdown

• No. 10: Middle School Student Threatens Shooting
• No. 9: Free Wood Chips!

• CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR KANE COUNTY CONNECTS E-NEWSLETTER