Kane County Deputy, 50, Dies Unexpectedly: Sheriff

KANE COUNTY, IL — A Kane County deputy died unexpectedly of cardiac arrest on Valentine's Day, the office said. He was 50.

Christopher Ruchaj was at his home when he died, officials said. The deputy worked at the Kane County Sheriff's Office since 1997, most recently serving as the community resource officer at Kaneland High School in Maple Park.

In an announcement Wednesday afternoon, Sheriff Ron Hain and Undersheriff Amy Johnson said their colleague was "known for his passion for helping guide kids towards a positive path in life." Ruchaj was a father of three children and a "friend to all who knew him."

"There are no words to express our gratitude and appreciation for his many years of service and dedication to both the KCSO and the community he served," Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain said in a statement. "Deputy Ruchaj was an extraordinary friend, co-worker and brother."

During his 27 years with the department, Ruchaj served on the patrol and warrant divisions. Officials noted he recently participated in a roundtable discussion about online safety and emphasized the importance of parents talking to their kids about "enduring the nature of social media content."

He previously served as a fire district trustee in Sugar Grove.

In the wake of his passing, counselors have been made available to students and staff at Kaneland High School. Assistance is also being offered to his coworkers at the sheriff's office.

"Deputy Ruchaj was, and will remain, highly regarded by those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him," officials said.